Buyers often ask, what is the cost of custom framing at Hobby Lobby? The price typically includes materials, labor, and options such as matting, glass, and mounting. The main cost drivers are frame style, mat width, glazing type, and the size of the artwork. The following figures reflect standard Hobby Lobby pricing in the United States and assume in-store service with standard materials.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom frame job (standard art, 8″x10″ to 18″x24″) | $60 | $120 | $250 | Frame, mat, glass, and labor |
| Per-inch framing cost (board width and embellishments) | $2 | $5 | $12 | Typically added to large pieces |
| Matting (single or double) | $15 | $40 | $120 | Archival options vary by material |
| Glazing (glass types) | $15 | $40 | $100 | Non-glare and UV-filter options |
| Backing and mounting hardware | $5 | $15 | $40 | Included in most packages |
Assumptions: Hobby Lobby pricing uses standard, mid-tier materials; in-store framing service with typical turnaround; regional pricing variations exist.
Typical Custom Framing Prices at Hobby Lobby
Average framing for a common 11″x14″ print with a metal frame and single mat often lands around $80-$130, with higher-end frames or premium mats pushing toward $180. For larger pieces, such as 24″x36″ posters, expect total costs in the $200-$350 range, depending on frame profile and glass choice. Hobby Lobby also offers smaller, budget-oriented options around $60-$90 for basic black or white frames with standard mats.
Prices scale up with frame width, frame material (poly, wood, or metal), and mat style. Consumers should anticipate added charges for specialty glazing (non-glare or UV-protective glass) and additional hardware. The first 8″x10″ to 18″x24″ projects balance price predictability with robust protection. For oversized framing, per-inch costs and add-ons become the main price levers.
What Drives Custom Framing Cost at Hobby Lobby
Frame style and material dominate the bill, followed by mat width and glazing. A basic plastic or composite frame keeps costs low, while solid wood or metal frames raise the price noticeably. Custom framing also factors in mounting method, leveling hardware, and sealing techniques. Labor time correlates with piece size, number of mats, and any specialty finishes.
In practice, the main pricing tiles are: base frame price, matting price, glass or acrylic, and labor. A typical 18″x24″ piece with double matting and UV glass may fall in the $170-$260 range, whereas a similar setup with a premium wood frame could exceed $300. Turnaround time (same-day or next-day) often carries a surcharge or may require a different pricing tier.
Material Options and Their Price Impact
Matting material and color choices change the subtotal quickly. Standard paper mats are inexpensive, while archival cotton or alpha-cellulose mats add to the cost. Glass types vary from standard clear to non-glare and UV-filtering options, each adding a distinct amount to the total. Frames themselves range from economical plastic to premium wood or metal profiles with ornate corners.
For a medium-sized piece (16″x20″ to 18″x24″), a basic frame with a single mat and standard glass might cost $90-$140, while upgrading to archival matting and UV-glass can push the price toward $180-$240. Large or multi-mat configurations can surpass $300 without careful option selection.
Labor Time and Turnaround Considerations
Turnaround times influence price through priority service. Standard framing usually takes 3-5 business days, with rush options available for an added fee. If a customer brings in unusual art, large objects, or requires precise restoration mounting, expect higher labor charges and longer timelines. Labor is typically bundled into the overall framing price, but some shops itemize it for transparency.
With typical in-store framing, labor can account for a meaningful portion of the total on complex projects, especially when anti-warp backings or spacer systems are used for dimensional art. A straightforward 11″x14″ project might include labor in a bundled price, while larger formats could show explicit line items for labor hours and rate.
Regional Differences in Hobby Lobby Framing Costs
Pricing can vary by region due to labor rates, store overhead, and supplier costs. In higher-cost urban areas, base frame costs and glass upgrades may be higher by 10-20% compared to rural locations. If a store emphasizes premium framing services or offers frequent seminars on preservation, prices may trend higher nationally in practice, even if listed ranges appear similar.
For shoppers, it’s useful to compare local store quotes for the same materials and sizes. Even with the same options, a 18″x24″ archival framing job could be $200 in one region and $250 in another, depending on the frame profile and mat choices.
Discounts, Coupons, and Their Impact on Price
Coupons and sales can meaningfully reduce the final bill. Hobby Lobby often runs promotions that apply to custom framing services, though exclusions may apply to premium mats or specialized glazing. A typical coupon might subtract 10-25% from the framing subtotal, or offer a percentage off a set menu price for standard sizes.
Plan by checking in-store promotions and timing your visit with seasonal sales. Bundling multiple pieces or selecting standard materials can maximize savings when a coupon is applied.
Practical Ways to Reduce the Framing Bill
Control scope and material choices to manage price without sacrificing protection. Choose standard frames and mats, avoid premium UV glass unless necessary, and limit specialty finishes. Consider whether a ready-made frame with a custom cut mat achieves the look you want instead of a full premium frame. Scheduling framing during a promotional period can provide meaningful savings.
When cost is a priority, compare a few options: a single mat vs double mat, standard glass vs non-glare, and a simpler frame profile. If the artwork allows, you can also opt for a smaller frame size or different orientation to reduce material waste and labor.
What’s Included in a Hobby Lobby Framing Quote
A quote typically covers frame fabrication, matting, glazing, and mounting plus finishing touches and basic hardware. Premium add-ons such as laminated UV protection, acid-free backing, or archival storage sleeves may come with an extra charge. Some prices reflect a bundled package that includes standard mounting hardware and a basic maintenance plan.
To avoid surprises, request a written estimate that itemizes frame, mat, glass, backing, and labor. Clarify whether a rework or adjustments are included in the price and if any embellishments incur separate fees.
How to Read a Hobby Lobby Custom Framing Quote
Understand line items and per-unit costs. The quote should present a base frame price, matting (per mat), glass (per piece), and labor (hourly or flat). Look for a per-inch framing charge for oversized works, and verify any minimum charges. If a quote lists only a total, ask for breakdowns to evaluate where the cost driver is highest.
Beyond the base price, identify any added costs for rush service, installation at home, or return trips if adjustments are needed. A clear breakdown helps compare against other shops and decide where cutting costs is most feasible.