The deadline for Christmas-ready custom framing is November 18th. This means anything brought to Marian after this date is not guaranteed to be ready in time for Christmas.
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Our framer is available Tuesday-Saturday during regular store hours. You can book an appointment or walk-in. We recommend booking an appointment if: you are bringing multiple pieces (3+), your piece(s) are complex or unconventional, or if you are on a tight schedule and don't have time to wait (should the framer be busy when you arrive).
Click here to book an appointment online
Please note: we do not carry ready-made frames of any size and only provide custom framing services. We are able to cut mats for your ready-made frames.
We do not accept donations of old frames, glass, or matting. We suggest contacting local not-for-profits to see if they are accepting donations of these items.
Quotes
Due to the specificity of framing certain items, as well as the large variety of options, please bring your artwork into the store if you're looking to obtain a quote. We prefer not to give quotes over the phone, as price can vary significantly depending on your preferences and choices, making accuracy very difficult.
Meet Our Framer: Marian Switzer
Marian has over 18 years experience in custom picture framing. After completing her degree in Fine Arts at the University of Guelph, she apprenticed with a master framer in Toronto for a year. Priding herself in the work she does, she ensures that all orders are completed to the highest standard. This includes only using materials that are museum grade and carrying only wood moulding made by some of the industry’s best, Larson Juhl and Roma. Options available for all price ranges and no project is too unusual or difficult. In fact, she loves a good challenge!
Some previous framing customers include:
- CBC
- The Gemini Awards
- Mike Holmes
- dc3 Gallery
- Alberta Teachers Association
- Modern Era Design
- MacEwan University
- City of St. Albert
- Art Gallery of St. Albert
- Norquest College
- AGA
Framing Gallery
Art by Kent Monkman
Art by Tammy Salzl
Art (L-R) by Damien Hirst, Cleon Peterson, and Slick
Bow by Jerry Saddleback
FAQ
Q: The glass in my frame broke! Are you able to replace it?
A: Yes! Bring in your frame and I'll be able to replace the glass for you. Most replacements are the cost of glass plus a $30 re-fit charge. If the fitting is more complicated (ie shadowboxes or difficult frames) the charge may be more. Hot tip: tape the broken glass so it doesn't shift in the frame and potentially damage artwork or matting.
Q: I've never framed something before, can I get a quote first?
A: Of course! I always recommend bringing in what you want to get a quote on. There are many variables involved with framing, so having a picture of it on your phone, or knowing the measurements is usually not enough info to go over all the options and for me to know what additional prep work may be involved. If you're a corporation looking for a quote on a large framing project, please send me an email with measurements of artwork in inches (l x h x w), the medium, a brief description of the project, as well as images of moulding you may be interested in.
Q: Do you frame needlepoints? How about jerseys? How about my great grandmother's snorkel mask?
A: Yes! I'll frame anything you bring in! I have over 18 years of experience and haven't had a project I wasn't able to figure out.
Q: Do you do all the framing yourself?
A: Yes... mostly. I don't have a wood shop on-site, so my frames are cut and assembled by my suppliers, but everything from mounting, stretching, glass and mat cutting, and fitting is all done by me in the shop.
Q: Why is framing so expensive?
A: Custom framing is like any other custom project you might have for your home. If you wanted custom cabinets for your kitchen, it will be more than going to Ikea and buying something pre-fabricated. There's nothing wrong with pre-fabricated items, but you're likely not getting the best materials, nor are you getting the expertise from someone who can help you troubleshoot problems or recommend better options. All the materials I use are museum grade and 100% archival. The mouldings I carry are primarily Italian-made with many of them having hand-finished elements.
Q: Speaking of Ikea, I have a frame I bought but the mat that came with it didn't fit my artwork. Can you cut me a new mat?
A: Absolutely! I totally understand that not everyone is in the position to afford custom framing, or maybe it's for a picture that you're not yet sure about but still want to hang it on the wall. The best bet is to bring in the artwork AND the frame. Often the measurements on the frame aren't EXACTLY what they say, or sometimes there are ready-made frames that I actually can't work with. There are a number of different price points for this and I can go over all of them with you in the shop.
