cheap frames aren't worth it

[hartcons]

Just spent the better part of a week fussing with inexpensive (sub $10) frames from Michael's and never managed to get one that didn't have a noticeable cosmetic problem like chipped silver paint (that shows black underneath) or deep scratches in the glass or sides that curved in noticeably (vs. being square). Had better luck with the ones I paid $12.99 and $17.99 (these were pre-matted as well) for so maybe $10 is the magic point below which you dare not go?

Also discovered that a local specialty framing shop can cut glass to spec. So I got an 8.5x11 piece for $2 to replace the scratched one that came with one of the cheap frames. They said it would be $40-$50 to frame an 8x10 nicely with UV glass.

Framing is one of those things that can drive you mental chasing little dust bunnies all around the frame. I don't envy those who have to do it every day! I did find that wearing little cotton film gloves helped a bit and I used a rocket bulb blower to move the dust around.

[Michele]

I have found the same thing. I like to shop at Aaron Brothers for my frames when they have them on sell. However, I have learned just as you have to check the frame really good under the best area of lighting at the store before purchasing it. The lighting at the two Aaron Brothers that are closest to me, there lighting is quite dim and it makes it hard and I sometimes wonder about stores that have the dim lighting.

[hartcons]

Originally Posted by Michele

... and I sometimes wonder about stores that have the dim lighting.

There's a famous restaurant in Portland called Ringside that must be what it was like at night before they invented electricity. They could serve your steak raw and you wouldn't notice until you took a bite! You have to stand in the entrance for several minutes before you can safely walk to your table. Makes you wonder what folks are doing where they need so much privacy