Framing Window Cards

I have a small collection of window cards and have a few questions about framing them. I've searched and read through a few threads but didn't see an existing discussion that fit. Apologies if I missed anything.

Where do you get your frames? I'm very interested in Triton Gallery's wood frames. Does anyone have an opinion (and/or photos)? They look good, but before I shell out $45 a pop, I'd like to have more information. (I don't live in NYC, or I'd check them out in person.)

I visited https://www.hollywoodposterframes.com and https://www.wholesaleposterframes.com, and they look fine, but I'd really like wood frames.

I've also looked at custom framing at chain stores and local shops, but that seems to be the priciest way to go.

Speaking of which, what about acid-free backing and uv-protection? Is it a must? Obviously, we want to preserve our window cards, but we also want to pay rent and eat, so I'm wondering what most collectors here do?

Thanks in advance! I enjoyed the "Show us your Broadway poster wall" thread (https://forum.broadwayworld.com/readmessage.php?thread=1012488) and hope to have a similar wall someday :)

I second ryandl15's comments. All of my window cards are in Michael's frames. Cheap, and attractive. Like my ex.

Hee, thanks for your reply, xoffender45 :) I did go to Michael's, but went straight to custom framing. I'll go back and check out the 16x24 frames. Thanks!

Michaels has specials on framing fairly frequently - just keep your eyes open for them. I've had all my windowcards done at Michaels and will continue to bring them business in the future.

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@Eris0303 Thanks so much for posting a pic, that's gorgeous! I've been thinking about doing something similar with Macbeth (Trafalgar Studios). Do you go the whole preservation route (acid-free backing and uv-filtered glass)?

Updated On: 1/10/14 at 02:59 PM

@Bettyboy72 I've checked Jo-Ann's website (and YouTube channel) and am excited to go down there and price them out. There's a coupon (and they accept competitor coupons, too!), so I assume I'll get the best available price. I plan to keep it straightforward for most of my wee collection. Only the Macbeth will get the super-custom treatment :) Thanks again for the lead!

No, I did the regular paper/glass. Even without it was still $200+ w/ a coupon

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I used to work in custom framing. If you want to protect and display windowcards, you're going to have to get a mat to keep them off the glass or plastic in front of the frame. They will stick because of the moisture in the atmosphere sooner or later, making them impossible to remove without damaging them.

What you can do at a store like Michaels is use a coupon to buy a larger frame then you need and ask the framing counter to order a custom mat so it fits the frame. A single mat will come with conservation quality backing board and everything will be assembled for you. I don't know if they added an assembly fee or not in the past few years.

If you're willing to spend a little extra money, the custom metal frames in the chain stores are surprisingly good quality and very cheap compared to wood and composite options. Glass will be the most expensive part but then you'll have better proportions for the window card. The wood frames are very poor quality, as a rule, which is why they push you to get the much better quality inserts/linen liners so your framed item isn't wrecked by cheap stain and glue.

Never use the chain stores unless they're having a sale on framing and always read the fine print to see what the requirements are. A few times a year, you can even just get a mat for 50% off. Most of the time, the discounts require molding and glass.

If you just go with the poster frames or ready made wood frames, make sure you have a coupon, as well. The overhead on those is sky high because they order in bulk. Wait for the weeks where the 15/20/25% off all frames can stack with a 25/40/50% off an item/your total order including sales items. That happens every few weeks (because they can take the loss and still make money).

Eris, that is a gorgeous mount for that window card. Do you ask for the same employee every time? I wouldn't risk my order with anyone else if that's what one person was willing to design for me.

Updated On: 1/11/14 at 01:31 PM

So glad to discuss this topic and hear what others are doing. I have always spent the money on customized frames with mats at Michaels and have always been happy.

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I always wait for the 60% off coupons and even with those a framed/matted window card is around $140.

I recently framed my first window card for my first apartment. I went to Aaron Brothers which is notoriously expensive for framing, but also known for doing amazing work. I simply couldn't afford $200+ right now, so I saw a frame on their shelf I liked and framed it myself carefully. $28 and 15 minutes later, I was very happy with the result :))

Updated On: 1/12/14 at 01:36 PM

Thanks saulssweetie! Please post some of yours I would love to see them.

My newest addition is Venus in Fur. I loved this play and especially Nina's performance. Quite sexy.

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Updated On: 1/21/14 at 04:54 PM

^^I like yours and am especially jealous of the "Amour" window card. I really regret missing that show. Thanks for sharing!