FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions |
Q. Do you sell glass with your picture frames?
A. We only sell glass if you are going to collect it from our Mt Gravatt Store. |
Q. I'd like to learn picture framing, where do I start?
A. You will find a host of information within our reference section located at the bottom of our DIY page here. We have compiled a simple picture framing course on DVD for you to purchase from our online store. |
Q. How much should the mat board overlap my picture?
A. Usually the window in the mat is 5mm smaller on each side than your picture.
This can also be varied to accomodate such things as staightening the horizon or covering an unwanted bit of the picure etc. |
Q. How much money will I save making my own frames?
A. It all depends on how much you do and the selection of materials you make.
The greatest saving is often the consultation time that you spend with a professional. If you have good equipment and minimise your wastage then you could expect to save up to 50% on custom framing costs. |
Q. Where can I find a print or poster that I'm looking for?
A. Go to the online store and enter your search requirements in the All Posters search box. This will search the world's largest print database and show you the cost in Australian Dollars. |
Q. I've got a frame that I would like to match, can you help?
A. Fix-a-Frame has access to a huge range of frames but we would really need to see the frame either through some detailed photographs or better yet bring it into the store for a consultation. In some cases the frame may be discontinued but we may be able to simulate or replicate it. |
Q. Do you frame memorabilia?
A. Since 1991 we have been challenged with complex and awkward framing encompassing all types of three dimensional objects and collectibles. I'm sure that we can design a suitable archival display for your works. |
Q. How long does it normally take to get a custom frame made?
A. Our usual turnaround time with custom framing is seven days but we ae able to cope with rush orders if required. Generally constraints to delivery may be if you require a special design that requires complex components from multiple suppliers. |
Q. Do you deliver?
A. Fix-a-Frame is able to deliver to the Brisbane CBD for a modest charge. |
Q. Can a consultant visit my business or home to suggest the correct framing for my pictures?
A. We usually consult in our Custom design showroom but if you have a special request or are unable to visit us please call us
on 07 3849 8164 to discuss your requirements. |
Q. Do you use archival materials?
A. All of our matting and mounting products are acid-free and we endeavour to use reversible archival techniques with the majority of our work. When you consult with our designers they can best advise of the correct techniques and materials for the job. We keep Museum matting and various UV glass products that when used with the correct mounting techniques should last more than a lifetime. |
Q. Do you offer bulk or artist discounts?
A. Fix-a-frame is happy to support local artists and does have a favourable pricing structure for bulk and exhibition works. Please visit us to discuss your requirements further. |
|
CANVAS PRINTING and PHOTO RESTORATION / RETOUCHING |
How long will it take to get my job done?
Your job will be delivered within 7 working days. |
Can you use photos from my digital camera or iPhone ?
Yes, we can print images taken on most digital cameras. We can use JPG, PNG, TIF, PSD, RAW images and most picture formats. For best results, make sure your camera is set on the highest resolution (largest size) possible. |
I only have an actual photo and not a digital file, can you work from that?
Yes, we can make prints from an actual photo or piece of flat artwork. We will make a high resolution scan and return your photo. We can also email the digital file back to you and it is all included in the price. |
I have a large photo can you scan and copy it?
This problem can be solved by scanning the images in parts. We will combine the images and blend them to reproduce the photo at full size. |
How can I send you my image?
It is easy. You can email the image to us at fixaframe@optusnet.com.au with instructions and contact details, or burn it to CD/DVD and mail it to us. |
My image is too large to be sent by email. What should I do?
You can burn it to CD/DVD or send us through FTP. In case of a FTP we will guide you with all the necessary instructions. Another way to do it is using special FREE softwares like 7-Zip (PC) or YemuZip (Mac) to compress the file saving considerably less space than usual and then send the image to us by email. |
Do you offer any guarantees?
Your purchase comes with our 100% satisfaction guarantee and is backed with Epson's guarantee of the longevity of their products. |
How long will my canvas prints last?
Under normal lighting conditions, your canvas prints will last over 100 years because of the acid free canvas printing process and canvas material. |
What is the resolution of your printer?
Our printer can print up to an impressive 2880x1440 dpi and deliver a super sharp image with no banding. |
What is included in your prices?
All canvas / Photo Restoration-Retouching re prints include:
• Red eye reduction (if required)
• A protective clear laminate & UV coating
• Image cropping & sizing
• Black & White or Sepia conversion (if requested)
The canvas "Ready to Hang" price also includes:
• A protective clear laminate & UV coating
• Canvas stretched on quality timber frame
• Taped and wired ready to hang
|
|
NEEDLEWORK |
What is the ideal surface to work on when framing fabric?
The work surface should be constructed of a sheet of unsized muslin. The muslin should be stretched over a polyester or cotton batting to pad the surface. Over the muslin another loose sheet of unsized muslin should be placed. The loose sheet of muslin should be cleaned or changed regularly to keep it clean. Muslin is used because it absorbes dust and dirt and thus prevents it from dirtying the fabric. You can always use a clean white towel or calico if you cannot get muslin. |
What is the most important factor when selecting a technique for framing needlework?
The most important factor when selecting a technique is to decide how you wish to display the piece and then decide what method is most suitable bearing in mind that it should be reversible without damaging the fabric. |
What is blocking?
Blocking is a process that is used to stretch the needlework into shape before it is held in place by stitching or stapling. |
What materials do I need for lacing?
The materials required for lacing are: rag board or other rigid acid free mountboard, stainless steel pins, ball point needles, cotton or linen thread and polyester batting if you wish to pad the work. |
Could you use Velcro to hold fabrics for framing?
Q. Do you sell glass with your picture frames?
A. We only sell glass if you are going to collect it from our Mt Gravatt Store. |
Q. I'd like to learn picture framing, where do I start?
A. You will find a host of information within our reference section located at the bottom of our DIY page here. We have compiled a simple picture framing course on DVD for you to purchase from our online store. |
Q. How much should the mat board overlap my picture?
A. Usually the window in the mat is 5mm smaller on each side than your picture.
This can also be varied to accomodate such things as staightening the horizon or covering an unwanted bit of the picure etc. |
Q. How much money will I save making my own frames?
A. It all depends on how much you do and the selection of materials you make.
The greatest saving is often the consultation time that you spend with a professional. If you have good equipment and minimise your wastage then you could expect to save up to 50% on custom framing costs. |
Q. Where can I find a print or poster that I'm looking for?
A. Go to the online store and enter your search requirements in the All Posters search box. This will search the world's largest print database and show you the cost in Australian Dollars. |
Q. I've got a frame that I would like to match, can you help?
A. Fix-a-Frame has access to a huge range of frames but we would really need to see the frame either through some detailed photographs or better yet bring it into the store for a consultation. In some cases the frame may be discontinued but we may be able to simulate or replicate it. |
Q. Do you frame memorabilia?
A. Since 1991 we have been challenged with complex and awkward framing encompassing all types of three dimensional objects and collectibles. I'm sure that we can design a suitable archival display for your works. |
Q. How long does it normally take to get a custom frame made?
A. Our usual turnaround time with custom framing is seven days but we ae able to cope with rush orders if required. Generally constraints to delivery may be if you require a special design that requires complex components from multiple suppliers. |
Q. Do you deliver?
A. Fix-a-Frame is able to deliver to the Brisbane CBD for a modest charge. |
Q. Can a consultant visit my business or home to suggest the correct framing for my pictures?
A. We usually consult in our Custom design showroom but if you have a special request or are unable to visit us please call us
on 07 3849 8164 to discuss your requirements. |
Q. Do you use archival materials?
A. All of our matting and mounting products are acid-free and we endeavour to use reversible archival techniques with the majority of our work. When you consult with our designers they can best advise of the correct techniques and materials for the job. We keep Museum matting and various UV glass products that when used with the correct mounting techniques should last more than a lifetime. |
Q. Do you offer bulk or artist discounts?
A. Fix-a-frame is happy to support local artists and does have a favourable pricing structure for bulk and exhibition works. Please visit us to discuss your requirements further. |
|
CANVAS PRINTING and PHOTO RESTORATION / RETOUCHING |
How long will it take to get my job done?
Your job will be delivered within 7 working days. |
Can you use photos from my digital camera or iPhone ?
Yes, we can print images taken on most digital cameras. We can use JPG, PNG, TIF, PSD, RAW images and most picture formats. For best results, make sure your camera is set on the highest resolution (largest size) possible. |
I only have an actual photo and not a digital file, can you work from that?
Yes, we can make prints from an actual photo or piece of flat artwork. We will make a high resolution scan and return your photo. We can also email the digital file back to you and it is all included in the price. |
I have a large photo can you scan and copy it?
This problem can be solved by scanning the images in parts. We will combine the images and blend them to reproduce the photo at full size. |
How can I send you my image?
It is easy. You can email the image to us at fixaframe@optusnet.com.au with instructions and contact details, or burn it to CD/DVD and mail it to us. |
My image is too large to be sent by email. What should I do?
You can burn it to CD/DVD or send us through FTP. In case of a FTP we will guide you with all the necessary instructions. Another way to do it is using special FREE softwares like 7-Zip (PC) or YemuZip (Mac) to compress the file saving considerably less space than usual and then send the image to us by email. |
Do you offer any guarantees?
Your purchase comes with our 100% satisfaction guarantee and is backed with Epson's guarantee of the longevity of their products. |
How long will my canvas prints last?
Under normal lighting conditions, your canvas prints will last over 100 years because of the acid free canvas printing process and canvas material. |
What is the resolution of your printer?
Our printer can print up to an impressive 2880x1440 dpi and deliver a super sharp image with no banding. |
What is included in your prices?
All canvas / Photo Restoration-Retouching re prints include:
• Red eye reduction (if required)
• A protective clear laminate & UV coating
• Image cropping & sizing
• Black & White or Sepia conversion (if requested)
The canvas "Ready to Hang" price also includes:
• A protective clear laminate & UV coating
• Canvas stretched on quality timber frame
• Taped and wired ready to hang
|
|
NEEDLEWORK |
What is the ideal surface to work on when framing fabric?
The work surface should be constructed of a sheet of unsized muslin. The muslin should be stretched over a polyester or cotton batting to pad the surface. Over the muslin another loose sheet of unsized muslin should be placed. The loose sheet of muslin should be cleaned or changed regularly to keep it clean. Muslin is used because it absorbes dust and dirt and thus prevents it from dirtying the fabric. You can always use a clean white towel or calico if you cannot get muslin. |
What is the most important factor when selecting a technique for framing needlework?
The most important factor when selecting a technique is to decide how you wish to display the piece and then decide what method is most suitable bearing in mind that it should be reversible without damaging the fabric. |
What is blocking?
Blocking is a process that is used to stretch the needlework into shape before it is held in place by stitching or stapling. |
What materials do I need for lacing?
The materials required for lacing are: rag board or other rigid acid free mountboard, stainless steel pins, ball point needles, cotton or linen thread and polyester batting if you wish to pad the work. |
Could you use Velcro to hold fabrics for framing?
Velcro can be used for holding rugs, football jerseys, and any fabric with a decorative edge that has to be seen. |
Velcro can be used for holding rugs, football jerseys, and any fabric with a decorative edge that has to be seen. |