FRAMING LARGE PIECES
What are the constraints?
We recently framed this 38-star flag from 1876 for the Lovelock Museum. For years it flew over the Indian School in Lovelock. Now this 96″ wide by 70″ tall piece of history will be safely displayed in the museum.
We frame and stretch a lot of large pieces in our shop. Sometimes we joke that we should change our name to “Large Format Picture Framing.” Anything 32″ x 40″ or less is standard. Mats come standard in 32″ x 40.” Up to 40″ x 60,” is considered oversize. There is still a decent selection of mat colors and glazing that is available at that size, although it will be a bit heavy.
Pieces over 40″ x 60″ get a little trickier. Now you will need acrylic and mats are limited to black and white up to 48″ by 96″. Anything wider than 48″ and you are down to white mats only. We would recommend using a liner instead.
Moulding options also decrease as the sides get longer. The larger the frame, the sturdier it needs to be, eventually getting into the necessity of hardwood options.
The flag below is the largest piece we have framed to date. This flag measured about 120″ wide x 72″ tall before we added the frame. This was a learning experience. The first time, we didn’t use a sturdy enough moulding, so we got to do it again for free, because we warranty our work.
Notice the side of this kimono frame below. There wasn’t a deep enough shadow box frame, so Dan built a box the same width as the frame so that we could attach the frame to the top. The sides had to be painted to closely match the frame. This piece measured roughly 66″ wide by 82″ tall. Since mats don’t come that large, we purchased fabric to hand wrap the backing.
Canvas Stretching is a little different. Larger pieces require more bracer bars so that it’s not floppy, but since mats and glass don’t apply, those aren’t a problem. As long as the sides aren’t over 10 feet we can put regular moulding on them.
This one isn’t actually that big. It measured about 72″ by 72″. The largest overall piece we’ve stretched was 90″ by 100″.
This fun collage of our Biggest Little City measured 49 1/2″ tall by 131 1/2″ wide. Definately the longest stretch we’ve done.
Custom Options: If you have a large piece that is an odd size, we can order fabric to hand wrap a different substrate, such as acid free foamcore. Depending on your piece we may be able to seam two mats together. Also, rather than using a mat for a border, liners are good options. We’re pretty creative here, so if you have a large piece of artwork or memorabilia that you want to frame, we’ll be happy to explore your options with you.