Commissioned Painting and Framing

I just dropped off a commission on Monday to a woman who ordered a painting for her husband for the holidays. It turned out really well (doesn’t everything on blogs?) and I was really pleased with her reaction.

It was one of the few times I’ve had to get my paintings framed, because it’s expensive. I use Steel City Framing on Penn Ave in the Strip District and I have to say, I think that spending the money to get your paintings framed is completely worth it. I was really pleased with their work.

Although I’m a fairly confident painter, I think it can be difficult to choose a frame for a painting, because it needs to compliment the interior of the home. This is why I plan on always picking gold or black. Because that’s what I like, so you will too.

TIPS FOR FRAMING!

1. Always ask whether the frame you pick is in stock or whether they need to order it. Then ask what day of the week they get their orders in.

2. Mention that you’re the artist, many framers will give you a discount (mine gives me 30%).

3. Oil paintings can’t have glass covering them because they need to breathe. I don’t put glass over my acrylic paintings either because it looks weird.

4. Be aware of framing and presentation guidelines which will make your work look more professional and will make it easy for galleries to accept and hang your work. If you need a refresher, this is a great resource.

5. Build in the cost of framing to the total price of the piece, factoring in time and fuel costs moving the piece to and from your studio to the installation site.

Now you, too can frame things!