Photo frame prices range from about $5 for a small basic frame to more than $300 for a large custom-framed piece. Size, frame material, glazing, matting, and local framing labor account for most of the difference in photo frame sizes and price.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ready-made 4 x 6 in. frame | $5 | $12 | $30 | Basic wood, metal, or plastic |
| Ready-made 8 x 10 in. frame | $8 | $22 | $55 | With or without a mat |
| Ready-made 16 x 20 in. frame | $20 | $55 | $140 | Frame opening may be smaller with a mat |
| Custom 16 x 20 in. framing | $90 | $190 | $380 | Frame, glazing, mat, and shop labor |
What common photo frame sizes cost
Standard frames are priced by the outside frame size or by the artwork opening; buyers should check which measurement a listing uses. A 5 x 7-inch frame typically costs $7-$35, an 11 x 14-inch frame $15-$75, and an 18 x 24-inch frame $30-$170. Premium finishes and protective glazing push prices toward the high end.
Custom framing costs more because a shop cuts materials to fit and assembles the frame. A custom 8 x 10-inch piece often totals $60-$150, while a 24 x 36-inch piece can cost $180-$600 or more. Assumptions: U.S. retail pricing, standard shapes, ordinary access, and no restoration work.
For standard sizes, ready-made frames usually offer the lowest price; custom work is mainly a fit or preservation expense.
How frame materials, mats, and glazing shape the quote
A custom quote commonly combines the frame, glazing, mat board, backing, and labor. Prices below are broad estimates for a single piece; larger or specialty orders may fall outside the ranges.
| Quote component | Low | Average | High | Typical unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic frame moulding | $2 | $6 | $18 | Per linear ft. |
| Mat board | $10 | $28 | $75 | Per opening |
| Glass or acrylic glazing | $12 | $35 | $100 | Per piece |
| Backing and mounting | $8 | $20 | $55 | Per piece |
| Cutting and assembly labor | $25 | $65 | $150 | Per frame |
Simple metal or narrow wood moulding is generally less expensive than wide, carved, or ornate hardwood. Standard glass is economical, while UV-filtering or low-reflection glazing raises the material charge. Archival mats and mounting materials also cost more than basic options.
Glazing and decorative moulding can add more to a custom quote than the artwork’s size alone suggests.
Why a 24 x 36-inch frame costs more than an 8 x 10
Large frames require more moulding and larger glazing, and they may need stronger backing or additional support. A ready-made 24 x 36-inch frame may cost $45-$220; custom framing at that size often runs $180-$600. At sizes above 24 x 36 inches, shipping, breakage risk, and wall-mounting needs can raise the total further.
Material and protection choices matter too. A basic 16 x 20-inch frame may be $20-$60 ready-made, compared with $45-$120 for a solid-wood version. UV-filtering glazing can add roughly $25-$90, depending on dimensions and product grade. Assumptions: Retail frame prices exclude artwork, shipping, and installation.
Once a frame exceeds 16 x 20 inches, compare the full quote rather than the moulding price alone.
Ready-made or custom framing for odd photo dimensions
Ready-made sizes such as 4 x 6, 5 x 7, 8 x 10, 11 x 14, 16 x 20, and 18 x 24 inches are widely stocked and often cost $5-$170. A custom frame for an unusual print size may cost $60-$600, depending on dimensions, materials, and glazing. A mat can make a slightly smaller print fit a standard frame without requiring custom cutting.
For example, a 10 x 13-inch print may sit behind a mat in an 11 x 14-inch frame, if the visible opening and overlap suit the artwork. Oversized, unusually shaped, or valuable pieces may justify custom sizing and conservation-grade materials. Using a standard outer frame with a custom-cut mat can be cheaper than ordering a fully custom frame.
How U.S. location changes custom framing prices
Shop labor and commercial rent affect local quotes. Custom framing in major coastal cities can run about 10%-30% above a national midrange estimate, while smaller towns may be 5%-20% below it. These are planning comparisons, not fixed regional rates; premium shops and expensive materials can exceed them anywhere.
Online retailers may offer lower prices for standard frames, but oversized shipping or return costs can offset savings. Local shops can measure the artwork and advise on fit, which may be useful for irregular prints. Compare quotes using the same frame dimensions, moulding, mat opening, and glazing type.
Three photo framing quotes at different sizes
A ready-made 8 x 10-inch frame with basic glazing may cost $18-$40, with little or no assembly labor. A custom 16 x 20-inch frame with a single mat and standard glass may total $140-$260. A custom 24 x 36-inch frame with solid-wood moulding, matting, and UV-filtering glazing may total $300-$650.
For a custom shop estimate, labor can be represented as . A straightforward frame may take 1-2 hours of shop work at an effective rate of $35-$75 per hour, though stores often quote a bundled project price rather than itemizing time. Ask whether the written total includes tax, mounting, and any required fitting adjustments.
Ways to lower the price without compromising fit
Measure the artwork precisely and bring it to the shop; incorrect dimensions can mean a remake or extra cutting charge. Keep the outer size standard, choose a simpler moulding, and use basic glass for ordinary prints kept away from direct sun. Consider a mat only when it improves appearance or provides needed clearance from the glazing.
Request separate prices for standard glass, UV-filtering glazing, and premium low-reflection options. If framing several prints, ask whether the shop offers a multi-piece discount, and compare at least two quotes with matching specifications. Spend on protection for valuable or sun-exposed artwork, and avoid upgrades that do not address a real display need.