F

Custom Framing Questions

Do you have questions about custom framing? We have answers! Browse the FAQ to view information about picture framing, shipping, art installation, and other services provided by Walter Adams Framing.

Pickup and Delivery

Walter Adams Framing has a delivery van that can accommodate most sizes of art and frames. Contact us if you need to have your art picked up and taken to one of our showrooms. We can also schedule delivery to your home or business when your framing project is complete.

Art installation and picture hanging

We can schedule and refer experienced and insured art installers for certain artwork.  For smaller jobs, we can install when we deliver your pieces.

What is “museum quality” custom framing?

We deliver the same level of quality museums use for their framed artwork. We specialize in conservation and archival framing. This means we use conservation materials and techniques. All of our mats and backing boards are acid-free. All glazing (glass and acrylic) that we offer has 99% UV filter to minimize fading of pigments and yellowing of paper.  Framing packages are sealed on the back that helps protect the artwork from environmental changes, dirt, and pests.

Who are the new owners of Walter Adams Framing?

San Francisco custom framers Keith Wicker and Lloyd Haddad purchased Walter Adams Framing in August 2023. They also own Capricorn Framing

What are the best options for matting?

The purpose of matting is to keep the glazing (glass or acrylic) from touching the artwork. In recent times, it has become a decorative element in the framing package.  There are many options for matting, including: rag mats, conservation boards, fabric wrapped mats, embossed mats, v-grooves, French lines, gilded or painted bevels, and color washes (to name a few). The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.

What readymade picture framing options are available?

We currently offer standard-sized photo frames at all Walter Adams Framing locations.  This selection includes 4×6, 5×7, and 8×10. There are some smaller acrylic frames and a few sizes of square frames that are offered. We have wood frames, sterling silver, acrylic, gold and silver leaf, inlaid woods, etc.

What are “standard size” frames? 

Standard picture frame sizes are widely available and are the popular sizes produced by most manufacturers. However, standard sizes don’t always correspond to typical photo dimensions, which is why many people seek out custom framing services.

Do you sell framing supplies?

As a custom framer, we don’t really sell the supplies that we use. We offer hooks and wire to hang, but framing components are specialty items that are included in framing packages. In some cases, we can cut matboard for your art, but prefer to protect the art with a full frame package.

Do you repair damaged frames?

Some frames that are damaged are beyond repair. However, we are happy to look at a damaged frame and give recommendations if we cannot repair it. Polystyrene frames are not repairable by us.

Do you provide art restoration services?

Yes, we have a stable of art restoration specialists that can repair and restore almost any art piece. It depends on what type of art and what restoration is needed as to who we use.

Do you do glass replacements?

We are happy to provide glass replacements for art packages that have broken glass.  All of our glass and acrylic has 99% UV filter.

How do I get an estimate or quote for my framing project?

It is best to bring your artwork into one of our design locations for an estimate or quote.  There are many different components and decisions that go into creating the best frame package for your art or documents. Once we put together a design with you, we can give you an exact price at that time. Estimating framing costs over the phone just gives a ballpark estimate.