How Much Does Custom Framing Cost at Hobby Lobby? A Comprehensive Guide
Determining the exact cost of custom framing at Hobby Lobby is tricky because it depends on several factors. There's no single price; instead, the final cost is a personalized calculation based on your choices. This guide breaks down the elements that influence the price and helps you estimate the potential expense.
What Factors Determine the Price of Custom Framing at Hobby Lobby?
Several key factors contribute to the overall cost of your custom framing project at Hobby Lobby:
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Matting: The type of mat board you choose (color, thickness, beveling) significantly affects the price. Simple, single mats are less expensive than multiple mats with complex layering or decorative edges. Specialty mats with unique textures or designs will also increase the cost.
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Frame Style & Material: Hobby Lobby offers a vast selection of frames in various materials (wood, metal, plastic) and styles. The material and intricacy of the frame design heavily influence the price. Ornate, handcrafted wooden frames will be significantly pricier than simple, basic plastic frames.
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Glass/Acrylic: Standard glass is generally less expensive than UV-protective glass or acrylic. Acrylic is a safer and lighter alternative to glass, but can be more costly.
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Artwork Size: The larger your artwork, the more materials are needed, leading to a higher price. Framing a small photograph will naturally cost less than framing a large painting.
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Additional Services: Do you need any additional services? These can include things like picture mounting, conservation-quality framing (for valuable pieces), or custom design work from a Hobby Lobby framing consultant. These extras all add to the final cost.
How Can I Get an Accurate Price Estimate?
The most reliable way to get an accurate price estimate is to visit your local Hobby Lobby store. Bring your artwork with you and consult with their framing department. The associates there can assess your piece, discuss your framing preferences, and provide a detailed quote based on your specifications and the materials available.
What are the Typical Cost Ranges?
While providing exact pricing is impossible, you can expect a broad range. Simple framing jobs for smaller items could start as low as $20-$30, while more complex projects involving specialty materials, larger artwork, and additional services might cost upwards of $100 or even more.
What are some ways to save money on custom framing at Hobby Lobby?
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Check for Sales and Coupons: Hobby Lobby frequently has sales and coupons, so keep an eye out for discounts on framing materials or services.
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Consider Simpler Options: Opting for simpler matting, a less ornate frame, and standard glass can significantly reduce the cost.
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Plan Ahead: Knowing what you want before visiting the store will help you make efficient choices and avoid unexpected add-ons.
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Bring Your Own Materials (if allowed): Inquire with Hobby Lobby about the possibility of bringing your own mat board or frame if you've sourced these elsewhere at a lower cost. This isn't always an option but is worth asking.
Does Hobby Lobby offer different framing levels?
Hobby Lobby typically doesn't explicitly advertise different "levels" of framing in the same way some specialty framing shops might, but the varying prices reflect different quality levels based on the materials and services selected. Essentially, the choices you make dictate the quality and, therefore, the cost.
By carefully considering the factors above and consulting with Hobby Lobby's framing specialists, you can get a fair idea of the cost and make informed choices for your custom framing project. Remember to factor in all potential additions and check for sales before heading to the store.
