FAQ - DIY Prints

This page is a bit of a work in progress... I've had a few people ask me questions about framing these prints. I'd love to share some ideas and troubleshooting tips with you. If you have anything specific you'd like to ask about, please drop me a note and I will add it in here to help out others who like to DIY framing their art! 

What comes first, the frame or the print?

If you have the choice, buy the print first... and then buy the frame. With the vintage artwork I alter, they are often unusual sizes. I like to give you the whole image, which means centring on a common paper size with a white border. Ordering the print first allows you to see it in person, and then either find a frame to fit, or have one made. 

I already have a frame, what size print should I buy? 

In this case, I suggest choosing the digital download option, and then taking the file on a USB to your local printer (like Staples, or a proper photo printer) and have them resize it for you and print it to the exact size that fits your frame. 

I have bought the print and the art is a weird dimension, how should I frame it?  

Some of my altered paintings were originally on weird sized canvases that aren't common sizes to find frames in any old decor shop. There are a few things you can do with these unusual dimensions...

Thrift it : I often find weird sized frames at the second hand / antique store. Fist measure you art (don't measure the paper edge, measure around the edge of the artwork.) Then bring a measuring tape with you and have fun hunting for the perfect frame! TIP : cut out a piece of wrapping paper to the same size, then you can just hold that paper on top of the frames to get an idea of how it would look in the frame. 

Have a custom frame made : Craft and art stores offer custom framing and matting. This is a more expensive option, but sometimes they offer sales so you can always time it when a special offer is going on.  

Should I put a matte on the frame?

This is a matter of personal taste... some people love the look of a paper matte framing the art, others like the art going edge to edge in the frame. There isn't a right decision!