What Michaels custom framing offers and how to order
Michaels offers in-store custom framing at most of its locations. You bring your artwork, photograph, or other item to a Michaels store, meet with a framing specialist, choose materials (frame, mat, glass, backing), and place an order. The framing is completed in-store, usually within one to three weeks depending on the frame selection and current workload. You pick up the finished piece when it's ready.
The process starts at the framing counter inside your local Michaels. You don't order online and ship your item to a central lab — the work happens in the store where you can see samples and discuss options face-to-face. The specialist will ask about the size of your piece, the look you want, and your budget, then show you frame styles, mat colors, and glass types available in stock or through their supplier.
Michaels also runs regular sales and coupons on framing services. Prices vary by location and by the specific materials you choose, so the cost of framing an 8-by-10 photograph at one store may differ from another store's price for the same work. Asking about current promotions when you visit can lower your total cost.
Key Takeaways
- You bring your item to a Michaels store and work with a framing specialist to choose frame style, mat, glass, and backing in person.
- Turnaround time is typically one to three weeks, and you pick up the finished frame at the same store where you ordered it.
- Prices depend on frame choice, mat color, glass type, and your item's size, and vary between locations.
- Michaels frequently runs sales and coupons on framing, so asking about current deals when you visit can reduce the final cost.
- Not all Michaels locations offer custom framing, so you should confirm your nearest store has the service before visiting.
Frame styles and materials available at Michaels
Michaels stocks hundreds of frame styles in wood and metal finishes. Common options include natural wood frames, black or white frames, metal frames in silver or gold tones, and decorative frames with ornamental details. The frames come in standard sizes (like 8-by-10, 11-by-14, and 16-by-20) and can often be cut to custom dimensions if your artwork doesn't fit a standard size.
Mat options include solid colors, textured finishes, and multi-opening mats that let you frame several small pieces in one frame. The mat sits between your artwork and the glass, creating a border and protecting the piece. You can choose mat color and width based on how you want the frame to look and how much of your artwork you want visible.
Glass choices typically include standard glass, UV-protective glass (which blocks ultraviolet light to slow fading), and non-glare glass (which reduces reflections but can slightly soften the image). The backing material holds everything in place and can be cardboard, foam board, or acid-free materials designed to preserve artwork longer.
Pricing and how Michaels calculates framing costs
Michaels prices custom framing by adding the cost of the frame, mat, glass, and backing, plus labor. There is no single price list because the total depends on which frame you choose, how many mats you add, what type of glass you select, and the size of your piece. A straightforward 8-by-10 frame with one mat and standard glass costs less than a 16-by-20 frame with multiple mats and UV-protective glass.
The framing specialist will show you the price for each component as you make choices, so you can see how selecting a different frame or glass type changes the total. This lets you stay within your budget by adjusting materials. Michaels also displays price ranges for common frame sizes and styles at the framing counter.
Sales and coupons are common. Michaels sends coupons through email, displays them in-store, and advertises them on its website. A typical promotion might offer 40 to 50 percent off custom framing, though the discount terms vary — some explore to the entire order, others only to the frame or mat. Asking the specialist about current offers before you finalize your choices can significantly lower your cost.
Turnaround time and pickup
Standard turnaround is one to three weeks from the day you place your order. The exact timeline depends on how busy the framing department is, whether the frame is in stock, and whether any materials need to be ordered from Michaels' suppliers. The specialist will give you a specific pickup date when you place the order.
You pick up your finished frame at the same Michaels location where you ordered it. The store will contact you when the frame is ready, usually by phone or email if you provided contact information. If you need the frame faster, ask the specialist whether rush service is available — some locations can complete simpler frames in one week or less, though this may cost more.
Comparing Michaels framing to other options
Local independent framing shops often offer more specialized informed and a wider range of high-end materials, but typically charge more than Michaels. They may also take longer because they work on a smaller scale. Independent framers are a better choice if you're framing valuable artwork, antiques, or pieces that need conservation-quality materials.
Online framing services let you upload an image of your artwork and order a frame through a website, then receive it by mail. These services are convenient if you can't visit a store, but you can't see materials in person or make changes once you've ordered. Shipping costs and return policies vary by company.
Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target offer basic framing at lower prices than Michaels, but with fewer style options and longer waits. Michaels' advantage is the range of frames and materials available in-store and the ability to customize on the spot.
What to bring and how to prepare your item
Bring the actual piece you want framed — the photograph, print, artwork, or memorabilia itself. The specialist needs to see it to measure it, assess its condition, and recommend appropriate materials. Don't send a photo or description; the in-person visit is part of how Michaels custom framing works.
If your piece is fragile, valuable, or has sentimental importance, handle it carefully and let the specialist know. They can recommend acid-free mats and UV-protective glass to preserve it. If your artwork is already matted or mounted, tell the specialist so they can plan the framing around what's already there.
You don't need to know frame styles or mat colors in advance. The specialist will show you options and help you decide based on your preferences and budget. Bringing a photo of your room or furniture can help if you want the frame to match your décor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every Michaels location offer custom framing?
No. Most Michaels stores have a framing department, but not all do. Call your nearest Michaels or check the store locator on Michaels.com to confirm that the location you plan to visit offers custom framing before you go.
Can Michaels frame items that aren't flat, like medals or 3D objects?
Yes. Michaels can frame medals, coins, small collectibles, and other three-dimensional items using shadow boxes or deep frames. The specialist will assess your item and recommend the best framing method. This typically costs more than framing flat artwork because it requires special materials and construction.
What if I don't like the finished frame?
Return policies vary by location. Most Michaels will remake the frame if there's a defect or if you change your mind before pickup, though you may lose the deposit or pay a restocking fee. Ask about the return and remake policy when you place your order so you know what to expect.
Can I get a frame made larger or smaller than standard sizes?
Yes. Michaels can cut frames to custom dimensions. Custom sizing may take longer and cost more than standard sizes because the frame must be cut to order. The specialist will let you know the additional cost and timeline when you request a custom size.
How much should I expect to pay for basic custom framing?
A straightforward frame for an 8-by-10 photograph with one mat and standard glass typically ranges from $40 to $80 before sales or coupons, depending on the frame style and your location. Larger pieces, multiple mats, or specialty glass cost more. The specialist will show you the price breakdown before you commit to the order.