Understanding the difference between ready made frames and custom frames is important when you’re shopping for picture frames.  Having a basic understanding of ready made frames and custom picture frames will get you exactly what you want without spending too much money.  So what is the real difference between ready made frames and custom picture frames?

A ready made picture frame is just that- a frame that is ready to be used right out of the box.  Manufacturers of ready made picture frames assemble and package them so all you need to do is open the box, insert your picture and it’s ready to be displayed.

Ready made picture frames come in standard photo sizes. You can find ready made frames for pictures, standard sized art work, small keepsakes or documents, like diplomas. Ready made picture frames come completely assembled in the box. They include glass, backing and some hardware for either hanging on a wall or for displaying on a table. Not all ready made frames include an easel back stand or frame hardware for hanging.  If you're not sure if something is included, check with your frame retailer to make sure you have everything you need for displaying your frame.

There are many different frame retailers that offer ready made frames online and in stores. With so much available you should be able to find exactly what you want.

Custom picture frames, on the other hand, give you more options than ready made frames. Custom frames are measured, cut and assembled specifically for you. If your framed item is not a standard size, or if you need a unique depth or dimension for your artwork or keepsakes, a custom frame is the answer.  With a custom frame, you can choose the type of protective surface you want, whether glass or acrylic with a UV coating. 

Custom picture frames let you create a unique look and choose the style of the frame, color, size, picture frame mats and the layout of your picture. Some customer framers refer to these as “ready made frames,” because they are cut to a specific size, but this process really is a custom made frame as they’re hand assembled.

Why should I choose a ready made picture frame over a custom picture frame?

The answer to that question depends upon what you plan to frame. If you have high quality or unique artwork, then a custom picture frame is your best choice especially if it's a non-stardard size. A custom picture frame can be made to accomodate almost any dimension and thickness so it's exceptionally versatile. With custom picture frames you have a lot of flexibility and options to choose from so it's easy getting exactly what you want.

Something to consider is that ready made picture frames are usually a lot less expensive. Custom picture frames are cut and assembled by hand which will increase the cost of your framing project.

So to choose between a ready made frame and a custom picture frame you should ask yourself a few questions.

Is it a standard picture size? If it's a standard size then you'll have lots of options with ready made frames. Ready made frames are available in a wide range of materials, colors, shapes and sizes. You can find frames in everything from wood and metal to gold leaf, sterling and basic black picture frames. If you're looking for a nice looking frame without spending a lot, a ready made frame is your best choice.

If you have a picture that doesn’t quite fit into a ready made frame, you can use a ready made mat insert to frame your picture and give it a custom look without the cost of a custom made frame.

However, as convenient, economical and nice looking as ready made frames are- sometimes you just want a custom look for your photo or artwork. If you have a special piece of artwork, whether a standard size or not, you may want the flexibility a custom frame allows in choosing the best way to showcase your piece.

Once you have determined whether a custom frame or ready made frame best suits your framing needs, you are ready to start shopping for your frame. No matter what type of frame you decide on, you’ll know the difference between these two types of frames so you’ll always get exactly what you want.