Stop Letting Your Art Collect Dust — Here Are the 7 Best Places to Get It Framed
We all have that one piece of art — a print picked up at a weekend market, a cherished photo from a family trip, or a poster that has been rolled up in a corner for years. The intention to frame it has always been there, but somehow it never quite happens. Sound familiar? You are not alone. The good news is that framing your art has never been more accessible, more affordable, or more convenient than it is right now. Whether you prefer the hands-on experience of a local frame shop or the ease of ordering online from your couch, there is a solution perfectly suited to your needs, timeline, and budget. Here is a breakdown of the seven best places to get your art framed, so you can finally get those pieces up on your walls where they belong.
1. Local Custom Frame Shops
There is something irreplaceable about walking into a neighborhood frame shop. Local custom framers bring a level of expertise and personal attention that larger chains simply cannot match. You can bring in virtually any item — an oil painting, a vintage poster, a child's drawing, or a piece of needlework — and work one-on-one with a professional to choose the perfect moulding, mat, and glazing for your piece.
Custom frame shops are particularly valuable when you are dealing with oversized artwork, oddly shaped pieces, or items with sentimental value that you do not want to risk. Yes, custom framing can come with a higher price tag, but many shops offer periodic sales and discounts, and the quality is often worth every penny. Ask about archival or conservation-grade materials if you want your framed pieces to last for decades.
2. IKEA
When it comes to budget-friendly framing, IKEA has long been a go-to destination for apartment dwellers and first-time homeowners alike. The Swedish retailer offers a wide range of frame sizes, styles, and colors at unbeatable price points. Their RIBBA and HOVSTA collections, in particular, are fan favorites for their clean, minimal aesthetic that complements nearly any décor style.
IKEA frames work especially well for standard-sized prints, photographs, and posters. While they may not be the right choice for precious or fragile artwork, they are a fantastic option when you want a polished, cohesive gallery wall without breaking the bank.
3. Target
Target has quietly become one of the most stylish and affordable places to shop for picture frames. With a rotating selection of frames across different finishes — black, white, wood grain, gold, and more — you can find something that feels intentional and design-forward without spending a fortune. Target also carries a curated selection of pre-matted frames, which make it easy to display prints in popular sizes like 5x7, 8x10, and 11x14.
Keep an eye on Target's seasonal sales and clearance sections, where you can frequently find quality frames at steep discounts.
4. Michaels
Michaels is one of the most well-known destinations for both DIY framing supplies and professional custom framing services. Their in-store custom framing department lets you choose from hundreds of moulding options, mat colors, and glazing types, with staff on hand to guide you through the process. Michaels frequently runs promotions — including their popular 50% or 60% off custom framing deals — making professional-quality results much more accessible.
For those who prefer the DIY route, Michaels also stocks a massive selection of ready-made frames in virtually every size imaginable. It is a one-stop shop for art framing at just about every level.
5. Framebridge
If convenience is your top priority, Framebridge is a game-changer. This online custom framing service allows you to upload digital photos or ship your physical artwork to them, choose your frame style and mat from a curated selection, and receive a beautifully finished, ready-to-hang piece delivered directly to your door.
Framebridge is especially popular for its transparent pricing, premium materials, and user-friendly design process. It bridges the gap between affordable ready-made frames and high-end custom shops, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants quality results without the hassle of visiting a store.
6. Artifact Uprising
For photography lovers and those looking to frame digital images, Artifact Uprising offers an elevated approach to printing and framing. Known for their commitment to quality materials and thoughtful design, Artifact Uprising produces prints and framed pieces that feel truly special. Their wood and metal frame options are particularly stunning, and the entire ordering process can be completed online with ease.
This is an ideal option for framing family portraits, wedding photos, or travel photography that you want to display with pride.
7. Walmart and Amazon
Do not overlook mass-market retailers when you are hunting for everyday framing solutions. Both Walmart and Amazon offer an enormous variety of frames at extremely low price points, covering everything from basic black plastic frames to more decorative ornate styles. Amazon, in particular, is convenient for finding frames in unusual or non-standard sizes that might be hard to source locally.
While these options are best suited to casual use rather than protecting valuable artwork, they are perfect for seasonal displays, office décor, or building a large gallery wall on a tight budget.
Tips for Choosing the Right Framing Option for You
Before you decide where to get your art framed, it helps to consider a few key factors. Think about the value — both monetary and sentimental — of the piece you want to frame. High-value or fragile items deserve archival-quality materials from a professional framer. For everyday photos and prints, a budget-friendly retailer or online service will do the job beautifully.
- Consider the size: Non-standard sizes are best handled by custom frame shops or Framebridge.
- Set a budget first: Knowing what you are willing to spend will help narrow down your options quickly.
- Think about turnaround time: Local shops and online services may have different lead times, especially around holidays.
- Prioritize UV protection: If your artwork will hang in a sunny spot, look for UV-filtering or museum-grade glazing to prevent fading.
- Match your décor: Choose a frame finish and style that complements your existing furniture and wall colors for a cohesive look.
Final Thoughts: There Has Never Been a Better Time to Frame Your Art
With so many excellent options available — from budget retailers like IKEA and Target to premium online services like Framebridge and Artifact Uprising — there is truly no reason to keep your favorite art hidden away. Whether you are working with a $20 budget or splurging on a custom heirloom frame, the right framing solution is out there waiting for you. Take stock of the pieces you have been putting off, pick the option that fits your lifestyle and budget, and give your walls the attention they deserve. A well-framed piece of art does not just decorate a room — it tells a story, sparks a conversation, and makes a house feel like a home.