Large frames

Astraeus

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Ciaran
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I would like to display an image at a size of 36" by 12". I have been recommended to Ezeframe as the sheer size means that it would be a custom frame as opposed to using, for instance, Durham City Studios from here. My intention is to have the print done by DSCL and probably frame it myself. I have seen many people on here say that local framers were less expensive than Ezeframe however I wonder whether this is only true of 'standard' size frames? Does anyone know of a framer aside from Ezeframe who could assist with such a large frame?

EDIT: Also, at DSCL, I am looking at the 36x12" panoramic options and all are marked "pro only" - are these unavailable to me? I presume all would opt for Fuji Metallic over the Pearl and Lustre finishes?

Many thanks.
 
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As a printer & framer my self a 12" x 36" frame is not classed as large, there is the same work involved in making a bespoke size frame as there is in a standard size frame, most places sell standard size frames as they buy them in from mass produced manufacturers keeping costs down, where a bespoke size frame is like it says specially made.
I see your looking at a frame the same size as the print, i would advise against putting the print directly up to glass as a number of things can occur, due to the very good nature of glass at conducting temperature change it can create moisture on the inside of the glass, causing the print to buckle (ripple), one solution to this is to bond (stick) the print to a board / backing preventing the buckle. also prints can stick to glass over time (usually long lengths of time). if you want to mount directly to up to glass i would recommend using Acrylic / perspex, as it doesn't have the same temperature conducting property's as glass. A mount between the print and glass cures this problem and can add aesthetically to the overall look of the piece, but this would result in a larger frame. A word on print finishes, the type of glass in the frame can change dramatically how an image is seen, if standard picture framing glass is used it has a lot of reflection and usually a green tint, unless white water glass in used, this will eliminate the tint to a very very small amount, reflections will remain. There are specialist glass available, anti reflective glass, which is nearly invisible. UV blocking glass, which filters out harmful UV. Anti reflective & UV blocking glass in one which does both of these features, commonly called Museum Glass.
By visiting a local framer you can see what suits your image the best and look at all the options in the flesh, as it were. before making a decision, also a cuppa and advise comes free, something you don't usually get online.
Hope that makes sense, well better get some work done now.

Mark
 
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^^^ This is the sort of advice that makes this forum worth coming back to each day.. :)
 
^^^ This is the sort of advice that makes this forum worth coming back to each day.. :)

And it is precisely that sort of advice that warrants me making a trip down to S6 this weekend.

As a printer & framer my self a 12" x 36" frame is not classed as large, there is the same work involved in making a bespoke size frame as there is in a standard size frame, most places sell standard size frames as they buy them in from mass produced manufacturers keeping costs down, where a bespoke size frame is like it says specially made.
I see your looking at a frame the same size as the print, i would advise against putting the print directly up to glass as a number of things can occur, due to the very good nature of glass at conducting temperature change it can create moisture on the inside of the glass, causing the print to buckle (ripple), one solution to this is to bond (stick) the print to a board / backing preventing the buckle. also prints can stick to glass over time (usually long lengths of time). if you want to mount directly to up to glass i would recommend using Acrylic / perspex, as it doesn't have the same temperature conducting property's as glass. A mount between the print and glass cures this problem and can add aesthetically to the overall look of the piece, but this would result in a larger frame. A word on print finishes, the type of glass in the frame can change dramatically how an image is seen, if standard picture framing glass is used it has a lot of reflection and usually a green tint, unless white water glass in used, this will eliminate the tint to a very very small amount, reflections will remain. There are specialist glass available, anti reflective glass, which is nearly invisible. UV blocking glass, which filters out harmful UV. Anti reflective & UV blocking glass in one which does both of these features, commonly called Museum Glass.
By visiting a local framer you can see what suits your image the best and look at all the options in the flesh, as it were. before making a decision, also a cuppa and advise comes free, something you don't usually get online.
Hope that makes sense, well better get some work done now.

Mark

Mark, thank you. I presume it is best for me to pop down before printing the photograph to a certain size so as to assess, with your assistance, which size is appropriate given the requirement for a mount (how daft of me to forget!). We can then discuss glazing, framing options and hopefully set you on your way to get a couple done for me. Let me know if it'd help to have the photograph printed.
 
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In my limited experience of having frames made, it always helps to at least have the image at hand as it help in choosing the frame and mount materials.
 
Hi Astraeus,

If you have the image on a usb stick etc, it can be viewed on screen and we can get a good idea of what will work with the image and what wont, if you have an idea on the size of frame you want it can be worked back from that for a print size. You can always use your first visit to look at what's available and possible, then make an informed decision at a later date, nothing has to be rushed. I would say if the picture is for resale you have to look at framing in a slightly different way, as it has to have a more universal appeal, and possibly fit a budget. Also possibly a look at different paper types for printing the image on.

Mark
 
Hi Astraeus,

If you have the image on a usb stick etc, it can be viewed on screen and we can get a good idea of what will work with the image and what wont, if you have an idea on the size of frame you want it can be worked back from that for a print size. You can always use your first visit to look at what's available and possible, then make an informed decision at a later date, nothing has to be rushed. I would say if the picture is for resale you have to look at framing in a slightly different way, as it has to have a more universal appeal, and possibly fit a budget. Also possibly a look at different paper types for printing the image on.

Mark

Mark - my trip out to you this morning has had to be postponed owing to one of the council's finest trees uprooting and hitting my partner's car first thing this morning. I'll hopefully make it out to meet you and discuss options next weekend. Many thanks again.
 
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By way of update, we now have THREE frames from Mark at Valley in our house and all look absolutely superb. He has been incredibly helpful and, on occasion, bent over backwards for us. We couldn't be happier and would/will recommend him to anyone!
 
By way of update, we now have THREE frames from Mark at Valley in our house and all look absolutely superb. He has been incredibly helpful and, on occasion, bent over backwards for us. We couldn't be happier and would/will recommend him to anyone!

Hi Ciaran, thank you for the kind words, Its makes my day when people take the time to say they like my work,
so thank you again. You have me at a bit of a loss as to what your third frame is,
my guess is it doesn't have a picture in it but 4 items from another country. ?. but i could be wrong.
 
I've not read through the detail of all this but have gone down the DSCL and Ezeframe route and have been pleased with the results - I've never been totally happy with Ezeframe's printing but their frames are very good value for money.

The best combination (at a price it must be admitted) that I've found is Loxleycolour. Super printing and framing and packaging.
 
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