When it comes to framing your art, posters, photos, or heirlooms, IKEA frames might seem like the easy option — quick, affordable, and stylish enough. But is it really the best way to showcase and protect something meaningful?
If you’re debating between a ready-made frame from a big box store and investing in custom framing in Vancouver, this guide will help you decide what’s worth it and what’s not.
Mass-Produced vs. One-of-a-Kind
IKEA frames are mass-produced overseas, designed to fit standard sizes and appeal to the widest audience possible. That’s great for convenience, but what happens when your art doesn’t fit perfectly? You end up trimming it or leaving a distracting gap around the edges.
Custom frames, on the other hand, are built specifically for your piece. Whether it’s an odd-sized canvas, a signed jersey, or a delicate vintage print, Framagraphic builds the frame to fit your piece, not the other way around.
Material Quality: What You Don’t See Matters
Let’s talk materials. IKEA frames are made with composite wood, thin acrylic or basic glass, and cardboard backing. That might work for a disposable print, but it’s not ideal for preservation.
At Framagraphic, we use archival-quality mats, UV-protective glass, and durable wood mouldings that protect your artwork for decades, not just a few months.
Preserve What You Love
Framing isn’t just about displaying. It’s about protecting.
Custom framing uses acid-free, museum-grade materials that prevent yellowing, fading, and moisture damage. IKEA frames offer little to no protection. If your piece matters to you, emotionally or financially it deserves the kind of treatment that ensures it lasts.
Design Options That Actually Match Your Style
IKEA frames selection is limited to a handful of sizes, colours, and styles. That’s fine if you want something simple, but it can fall flat in a unique space or beside original art.
With custom framing, the design options are endless. Framagraphic offers hundreds of moulding styles, colours, finishes, and mat combinations, all guided by professional design consultation. Whether you want minimalist black, vintage gold, or modern maple, we make it happen.
Sustainable and Local vs. Disposable and Mass-Produced
Let’s not forget where your money goes. Custom framing supports a local Vancouver business. Each frame is handcrafted by artisans who care about the details — not mass-produced on an assembly line.
Plus, custom framing is less wasteful in the long run. It’s designed to last a lifetime, not end up in the landfill after one move.
So, Which One Wins?
If your art is temporary, IKEA might do the trick.
But if your piece is valuable emotionally, artistically, or financially, custom framing in Vancouver is the clear winner. It’s about quality, protection, and giving your artwork the presentation it deserves.
Ready to Upgrade Your Frame?
Framagraphic has been helping Vancouver residents protect and display their most cherished pieces since 1976. Come visit our frame shop on West Broadway to see the difference for yourself.
Contact us today for a free consultation or bring in your IKEA frame, and we’ll show you how it could look better.
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