A guide to buying DIY picture frames. Where to buy frames in Australia.
Now that I have my poster print range available to purchase online I often get asked.. 'Where do I buy DIY frames from?'
So I thought as guide might help you to know where to go. This one is mainly for the Australian audience as that is where I am from.
Firstly, my poster prints (which you can check out here) are printed in standard Australian paper sizes from A4 to A1 in size. I will pop the sizes below to help you:
A4 = 210 x 297mm
A3 = 297 x 420mm
A2 = 420 x 594mm
A1 = 594 x 841mm
These are popular wall art sizes and you can easily find frames to match these sizes. There are many stores in Australia that have frame sizes to suit and your choice may depend on your budget or a preferred store that you like. It is always nice to have options so I will give you a few to choose from.
Lets start with the...
CHEAPEST RANGE
We're talking about $2 and upwards for your frames. So Kmart, Cheap As Chips and The Reject Shop stores are generally your cheapest options for frames. If you are a bargain hunter and not too concerned about the lasting quality of your frames then these are your options. The quality can be hit and miss in these cheaper ranges but if you are after cheap and cheerful then you are in the right place.
MEDIUM BUDGET RANGE
Starting around the $10 mark then Spotlight, Target, Big W would be your go to stores. The quality is better and it's also worth mentioning that Spotlight do have their frames on sale quite often. So if you're not in a rush just wait until they do a 30-40% off sale.
BEST QUALITY RANGE
If you're not a bargain hunter and you want to get decent quality frames then you are best to head to shops such as Freedom Furniture, Myer, David Jones and Country Road. These products are far more superior and this means that they will last a lot longer. Their prices also reflect this higher quality. You will be able to feel that they are much sturdier in their build and form and this may sway your decision if you can afford them and want a long lasting frame.
CUSTOM FRAMING
Oh and one other option for you... You can also take your prints to your nearest local framers and ask them for a quote to get them custom framed. This can be quite expensive, but the quality is usually top notch (I can't vouch for every framers but the ones I have used in my own home town are fab). Plus they may be able to help with colour choices on the frame and matt boards, especially if you were thinking of something a little different to what you would get in a shop.
CONCLUSION
Overall the general feeling is that you basically pay for what you get when it comes to choosing the right frame. Take into consideration what you're willing to pay, the overall look of the frame and the type of quality you would be happy with.
Prints can be up on your wall for many years and if you break down your cost into say for example 365 days, then it really isn't much per day for something that will bring your home warmth and happiness and make you smile every time you walk into the room.
