Best way to frame posters?
 

I have two posters that are 24" x 36". I would like to mat them and frame them. What is the best way to go about doing this and what would be the most economical way?

Also, how large should the mat be? I've never done this before, totally clueless.

take them to a pro is the best possible way $.02

I usually start by telling someone fairly new on the board that the poster is a scammer. Quietly plant some evidence and let the cards fall where they may. :2 cents:

Posters?
http://www.anncline.com/images/funTakNew.jpg
Prints?
Have a pro do them. It isn't difficult, but it requires space / tools etc. They are setup for it.

24 x 36 is pretty standard. you can get those kind of frames for cheap at any kmart/walmart/target. just slide it in between the back and the glass. usually I would say go to a framer, although pretty expensive, they do a good job, but for that size dont bother. it is a very standard size and easy to put together.

:1orglaugh:1orglaugh:1orglaugh

go to a store that sells frames and figure it out.. they have the sizes on the packages. Find the matte with a window that's for your poster size then find a frame for the matte dimensions

That would only fit the poster and he said he wanted them matted.

Store bought frames usually got up to 24" x 36 " but anything larger than that is really hard to find. If you want to do it yourself you will need some tools like a miter box to saw the angled corners on the frame. All measurements need to be exact or it will come out looking like a trapezoid.

Then you'll need some sort of glass but you can get some acrylic sheets at places like home depot and a special knife that will cut it to the size you need.

You will need a board for the backing and it should be as light as possible. A big sheet of foam board will work. If you use foam you will need to add a cross brace in the back to help support the frame.

Then you'll need some clips and wire to make something to hang it with.

The biggest problem is the matt. You will have to get a a piece larger than 24" x 36" and then cut out the middle for your poster. Those are usually cut with a special knife that cuts at an angle that gives the cut a bevel and the corners are mitered as well. The matt can be any width you like and can be single or several layered to get whatever look you want. It's main purpose is to keep the print off the glass but also adds to the overall looks.

So unless you are very skilled and have the tools it's really just better to go ahead and pay to have it done. Getting a 24" x 36" poster matted and framed might cost you an arm and a leg but that's much better than cutting off one :winkwink:

LOL... looks like I better start calling around. Thanks for the tips.

Would a craft store like Michael's provide this service or would I need to find some type of local framing shop?

The Michael's here in GA does framing so I'd imagine yours would as well. Get a quote from the big guy and then shop it to the small guy. Chances are the small guy will cut you a better deal with the economy being what it is lately.

Yes, they carry pre-done standard size frames like this in various styles. Most of them can also do custom framing if needed as well. I bought some there last X-mas to frame some old Family prints for my wife. They actually had some decent styles already done to choose from.

You still want that picture of my "special bouquet" to frame? :winkwink:
:1orglaugh:1orglaugh