When budgeting for a custom frame, buyers typically see price ranges driven by frame material, size, glass options, matting, and finishing. The cost and price depend on style choices, production time, and the shop’s labor rates. This guide presents practical pricing in USD with clear low–average–high ranges to help set expectations.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom frame (basic wood) | $25 | $70 | $150 | For standard sizes with simple profiles |
| Custom frame (premium wood or metal) | $60 | $180 | $420 | Thicker profiles, specialty finishes |
| Matting | $10 | $25 | $60 | Mat board, single to triple mat |
| Glass or acrylic | $8 | $25 | $80 | Non glare or UV glass adds cost |
| Labor / setup | $15 | $40 | $120 | Per frame; depends on complexity |
| Mounting hardware | $5 | $12 | $25 | Hooks, backing, hanging wire |
| Delivery / installation | $0 | $25 | $90 | In-store pickup vs home installation |
Assumptions: region, frame size, material, matting, glass type, and labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Most buyers should expect a total frame project to fall within $60-$300 per piece for standard sizes with basic materials, and $200-$600 or more for premium materials, complex profiles, or large formats. The price mix typically includes the frame moulding, matting, glass, labor, and finishing touches. For smaller prints or standard sizes, the per-frame cost is often at the lower end; oversized works and specialty materials push costs higher.
Cost Breakdown
| Materials | Labor | Glass | Delivery | Other | Total | $ per unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frame moulding, wood or metal | 40 | 20 | 0 | Hardware | 80 | $80 per frame |
| Matboard and backing | 0 | 15 | 0 | Acid-free materials | 15 | $15-$25 |
| Glass or acrylic | 0 | 25 | 0 | UV coating | 25 | $25-$80 |
| Custom cutting and assembly | 25 | 0 | 0 | Final fit | 25 | $25-$60 |
| Delivery | 0 | 0 | 25 | Within metro area | 25 | $0-$25 depending on distance |
| Subtotal | 65 | 40 | 25 | Hardware/Packaging | 130 | $130-$200 |
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What Drives Price
Material choice and size are the top price drivers. Heavier, thicker mouldings and metal frames cost more and require longer setup times. Larger formats require extra trimming, more glass, and additional backing supports, all adding to the final amount. Glass type such as UV protection or non glare influences price further.
Ways To Save
Shop for standard sizes first to minimize custom work. Consider ready-to-hang frames with a similar profile to reduce labor. Mix matting strategically—single mat packages cost less than triple mats. If enabling shipping, choose standard glass without specialty coatings unless required by the artwork.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor rates and material availability. In the Northeast, expect higher studio rates and premium materials, while the Midwest can offer mid-range pricing. The West often shows higher overhead costs that reflect store location, and rural areas may deliver the lowest base costs but longer lead times for materials.
Real-World Pricing Examples
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Basic Frame Scenario — artwork 11×14, standard wood frame, single mat, standard glass.
Assumptions: region, basic profile, DIY hanging hardware.Labor: 1.0 hours at $25/hour. Materials: $40 frame + $12 mat + $8 glass. Total: $85.
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Mid-Range Frame Scenario — artwork 18×24, premium wood, dual mat, UV glass, hardware + basic installation.
Assumptions: urban shop, moderate lead time.Labor: 1.5 hours at $40/hour. Materials: $120 frame + $25 mat + $28 glass. Delivery: $20. Total: $253.
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Premium Frame Scenario — artwork 24×36, metal frame, triple mat, museum-grade glass, custom finishing.
Assumptions: regional high-end studio, custom profile.Labor: 2.5 hours at $60/hour. Materials: $260 frame + $70 mat + $60 glass. Delivery: $35. Total: $625.
Pricing FAQ
How much does a custom frame cost per inch of profile? Costs vary; typical ranges are $2-$6 per linear inch for mid-range frames, more for premium profiles.