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5 Essential Considerations When Choosing Ready-Made Frames

by Gregory Tenney on July 18, 2025
5 Essential Considerations When Choosing Ready-Made Frames

There’s something timeless about walking into a space and seeing artwork, family photos, or keepsakes beautifully framed and thoughtfully displayed. Frames don’t just hold images—they elevate them. They anchor memories to our walls and give personality to our homes. But when it comes to choosing ready-made picture frames, the process can be trickier than most people expect. As the owner of West Coast Frames, I’ve spent decades helping people choose the perfect frame—and I can tell you firsthand, it’s more than just picking something that “fits.”

With nearly 100 years of craftsmanship behind us, our family-owned business has seen the frame world evolve—but what has never changed is the importance of choosing a frame that balances quality, functionality, and style. Whether you're framing a vintage movie poster, a wedding portrait, or your child’s latest masterpiece, here are five essential considerations to keep in mind.

Understand the Purpose Behind the Frame


Before anything else, ask yourself: what am I framing, and why? The purpose behind the piece will shape the type of frame that makes the most sense. If you're looking to protect a cherished family photo or a valuable print, the quality of your frame—and the materials used—matter more than ever.

At West Coast Frames, we approach every project with a deep sense of respect for what’s being framed. Whether it’s a mass-produced art print or a one-of-a-kind watercolor, we treat it with the same level of care. We always recommend considering both the value and visibility of your artwork. Is this something that will be in a high-traffic area? Does it need to be UV-protected? Are you planning to switch it out seasonally or leave it hanging for years? The answers to these questions will guide you to the right frame type and materials.

Match the Frame to Your Style and Space


This is where aesthetics come into play—and where many people struggle. A frame isn’t just a border; it’s an extension of your space and a reflection of your taste. One of the most popular styles we carry right now is our Gold Filagree picture frames. They’re rich, elegant, and full of ornate charm—ideal for classic art prints, vintage portraits, or gallery-style setups. But they won’t suit every room or image.

That’s why we always advise our customers to think holistically. What’s the décor like in the room where this frame will hang? Are you working with warm wood tones, minimalist whites, or bold, contemporary accents? The frame should complement—not compete with—your design.

A ready-made frame doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. In fact, we design our collections to be versatile, offering options that range from rustic to modern, traditional to transitional. Whatever your aesthetic, there’s a frame that fits—and we’re here to help you find it.

Prioritize Craftsmanship and Material Quality


Here’s a hard truth I’ve learned over the years: not all ready-made frames are created equal. Inexpensive, mass-market frames may look good for a few weeks or even months, but over time, poor construction becomes evident. Warped wood, peeling finishes, and weak joints aren’t just unsightly—they put your artwork at risk.

That’s why quality is at the heart of everything we do at West Coast Frames. Our ready-made picture frames are built with the same precision and attention to detail as our custom pieces. We use premium hardwoods, museum-quality backing materials, and crystal-clear glass that enhances—not distorts—your image. Every corner, cut, and finish is inspected like it’s being prepared for our own walls. Because if it’s not good enough for us, it’s not good enough for you.

Investing in a well-made frame saves you money and heartache down the line. You won’t have to replace it after a year, and your treasured items stay protected and perfectly preserved.

Choose the Right Size and Proportions


You’d be surprised how often people bring in beautiful artwork that’s been overwhelmed—or underwhelmed—by the wrong frame size. Choosing the right dimensions for your piece goes far beyond matching width and height. It’s about proportion, balance, and presentation.

We always encourage our customers to bring in their artwork (or at least an accurate photo with dimensions) when shopping for a ready-made frame. Sometimes a piece needs a mat to create breathing room. Other times, going frameless might make more sense. With picture frames, scale is everything. A large frame on a small piece can look clunky, while a thin frame on a bold canvas can make it seem unfinished.

Our team is happy to walk you through options, and we’re passionate about helping you get the sizing just right. We even offer tips on hanging and spacing to make sure your frame works within your wall layout, gallery display, or tabletop vignette.

Consider Longevity and Versatility


Finally, it’s important to think beyond the moment. Is this a piece you’ll want to display for years to come? Will you want to rotate different art or photos into the same frame in the future? Selecting a versatile style with durable construction allows your frame to grow with you.

That’s another reason our Gold Filagree picture frames remain so popular. They feel timeless. Whether they’re framing a vintage botanical print today or a wedding portrait next year, they remain stylish, regal, and built to last.

Longevity isn’t just about materials—it’s about flexibility. We design our ready-made frames to be easy to load and secure, so if your needs change, your frame doesn’t have to.

A Frame Worth Framing


Choosing a ready-made frame isn’t about grabbing the nearest rectangle that fits your picture. It’s about enhancing what you love, preserving it with intention, and adding something meaningful to your space.

At West Coast Frames, we believe that every frame should tell a story—not just about what it holds, but about the care that went into choosing it. With nearly a century of framing experience, we’re honored to continue helping individuals, artists, designers, and collectors display what matters most—beautifully, thoughtfully, and affordably.