One of the most common questions we hear at Truly Yours Custom Framing is: "How much does custom framing cost?" It's a fair question — and one that deserves a straight answer.
If you live in Saratoga County, NY — whether that's Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, Malta, or anywhere in between — here's a look at what you can expect to pay for custom framing and what drives the price.
Why Custom Framing Prices Vary
Custom framing isn't a one-size-fits-all service, which is exactly what makes it so special. The cost depends on several factors:
- Size of the piece — Larger artwork requires more frame material, larger mats, and sometimes special glass, all of which affect the price.
- Frame material and style — Frames range from simple profiles to ornate designs. The material and finish you choose have a big impact on cost.
- Matting choices — A single mat is the most affordable option. Multiple mats, decorative fillets, or custom-cut designs add to the cost — but also dramatically elevate the finished look.
- Glass type — Standard glass is budget-friendly. UV-filtering or museum-quality glass protects against fading and is ideal for valuable artwork, photos, or anything you want to preserve for decades. We carry six different types of glass and four types of acrylic and will be happy to explain the various characteristics and make recommendations for your specific project.
- Mounting method — Archival (conservation) mounting costs more than standard mounting, but it's the right choice for anything with sentimental or monetary value. Certain types of artwork require more time-consuming mounting methods than others. Items such as needlework or embroidery, jerseys, collectibles or other 3-D items will require sewing or other mounting methods, which will increase labor charges.
A General Idea of Pricing in the Saratoga County Area
Every project is unique, so we always recommend coming in for a free consultation rather than guessing based on a generic price list. The actual price for your piece depends on your specific choices. The good news is that we work with every budget. We can show you options at multiple price points so you can make the best decision for what you're framing and what you want to spend.
Is Custom Framing Worth the Cost?
We're obviously a little biased — but yes, genuinely, we believe it is. Here's why:
A frame from a big-box store might cost $50-$80 upfront, but it's made with acidic materials that will yellow and damage your artwork over time. Custom framing uses acid-free, archival-quality materials that protect your piece for decades. When framing a wedding photo, your grandma's handwritten recipe, a piece of original art, or a jersey from a championship game, that matters!
Beyond preservation, there's the look. A custom frame is designed specifically for your piece — the proportions, the mat colors, the frame profile — so the finished product looks like it belongs in a gallery, not a chain store.
Come In for a Free Consultation
At Truly Yours Custom Framing, we offer free in-store, half-hour consultations so you can see your options in person before committing to anything. We're located at 714 Saratoga Road, Burnt Hills, NY 12027 — just minutes from Ballston Spa, Malta, and Saratoga Springs.
Give us a call at 518-280-2233 or stop in. We'd love to help you figure out the best way to frame your piece — and make sure it fits your budget too.
And if you're ready to start designing your mat, check out our Custom Design Mats or try our Virtual Framer to explore frame and mat combinations from home.
