The framing desk
Questions, answered before you order.
A good frame should remove uncertainty, not add to it. Here is what to know about image quality, crops, mats, glazing, finished sizes, delivery and making a print feel at home.
17 practical answersPlain-language guidanceBuilt around real rooms
Getting started
- What can I have framed?
- Photos, art prints, posters, certificates, children’s artwork and meaningful paper keepsakes are all good candidates. If the piece is delicate, oversized or already mounted, contact us before ordering so we can recommend the safest route.
- Do I need to measure anything before I start?
- Not to begin. Upload your image or select a finished size in the builder, then we handle the mat opening, overlap and frame tolerances. If you already own the print, measure the paper edge to edge and keep the visible image size separate from the paper size.
- Can I frame a print I already ordered from another service?
- Yes. A print from a photo lab or print-on-demand service can be framed as long as its paper size and condition are compatible. Use the same original file when possible, or upload a clear image of the print, then compare the frame opening and mat before you order.
Image & print
- What resolution does my photo need to be?
- Start with the largest, original file—not a screenshot from a messaging app. Our builder checks the image against your selected size and flags files that may look soft. If the file is too small, choose a smaller finished piece or use a border and mat rather than enlarging it aggressively.
- Can I change the crop after I upload my image?
- Yes. Review the crop before choosing the frame. Keep faces, signatures and important edges away from the mat opening and frame overlap. A landscape photo may need a wider format, while a phone portrait often looks better in a taller size.
- Which print surface is easiest to live with in a room?
- A matte or lustre surface is usually more forgiving than a high-gloss finish when the piece will hang near a window or lamp. Gloss can make color feel vivid, but reflection control matters more than maximum shine for everyday viewing.
- What is the difference between paper size and finished frame size?
- Paper size describes the sheet or visible artwork. Finished frame size includes the moulding around it and, when selected, the mat. This is the measurement you should use for wall planning and hanging hardware. We show the outside dimensions before checkout.
Frame & finish
- Should I add a mat?
- A mat gives the image breathing room, creates a cleaner transition into the moulding and helps keep the print away from the glazing. We recommend one for most photographs, certificates and smaller art prints; large posters and full-bleed designs may look better without one.
- How do I choose the right frame color?
- Choose the frame for the room and the mat for the image. Natural oak brings warmth to family photos and landscapes. Matte black gives graphic or monochrome work a crisp edge. White keeps pale rooms and airy photography feeling light. Start with the option that supports the image without becoming the subject.
- Which cover should I choose?
- Standard acrylic suits most rooms and keeps the piece light. Choose UV-protective glazing for sunlit spaces and anti-glare when a window or lamp reflects directly toward the artwork. The best option depends on where the frame will hang, not only on the image.
- Do print-on-demand services usually include a frame?
- Some do, but many print-on-demand services focus on the print, poster or canvas and leave the final frame to the buyer. That is why Picture To Be Framed exists: upload the finished image, compare mouldings and mats, and preview a complete ready-to-hang piece.
Ordering & delivery
- How do I cancel an order?
- Open Track order and enter the order number and email from your confirmation. You can cancel while production has not started. If payment was taken, the full refund is sent back to the original card; once production begins, contact the studio and we will review the options.
- How long do refunds take?
- Refunds are issued through Stripe to the card used at checkout. Our email confirms the amount, and most banks show it within five to ten business days. A cancelled unpaid checkout does not need a refund because no charge was made.
- What happens if my order is already in production?
- The self-service cancellation button disappears once production has started. Because the piece is custom-made, changed-mind returns are generally unavailable after that point, but we will help with defects, damage, or a production problem through the returns policy.
- How long does a custom framing order take?
- Most orders are made in three to five business days, plus shipping. Statement mouldings and oversized pieces can take a little longer. Your order confirmation and tracking details are the best source for the exact timing of your piece.
- How does the finished frame arrive?
- It arrives assembled with protective packaging and hanging hardware fitted. The goal is a calm unboxing: unwrap it, choose the wall and hang it. Inspect the corners and glazing when it arrives, and contact us promptly if anything was damaged in transit.
- What if the finished frame is not right?
- Contact us with your order details and a photo of the issue. We would rather remake a piece than leave you with a frame that does not feel right. Review the crop, outside dimensions and frame preview before checkout to reduce avoidable surprises.
Still deciding?
See your own picture in the frame before you commit.
Upload a photo or print, compare frame profiles and mats, and preview the finished piece at home.
Open the frame builder