Frequently asked questions (FAQs):

What is mounting?
Mounting is the process of adhering a print to a sturdy backing board. This process ranges from conservation friendly methods (window mats and/or archival hinges) to cold mounting (flat adhered to foam, plastic or aluminum).

What is your turnaround time?
Normally 2–3 weeks. With our range of frame moulding vendors, our turnaround time is dictated by how quickly we can receive your materials. Depending on moulding selection, mouldings can arrive within 1–3 weeks.

Why is framing so expensive?
Preparing items for custom framing requires incredible care and patience. Every print or original is packaged properly to ensure the piece does not damage over time. The amount of labor and the quality of the framing materials is what can produce such a premium cost.

How do I get started?
If you are printing with us as well, use one of our printing service forms to get started. If framing a supplied item, or simply have questions regarding the process, reach out using the contact information below.

frame@printlab.com
312 362 9000

Mounting & Framing

With our recent acquisition of Loupe in early 2024, Printlab is now a one-stop-shop for printing and display! From lightweight prefrabricated frames, to sustainable American hardwood, we are here to ensure your pigment prints stand the test of time.

Services:

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Custom Framing:
Protect and elevate your artwork with our custom framing services. We use archival materials, quality mouldings, and UV-rated glass or plexiglass to ensure lasting preservation. With options for all sizes and styles, each frame is tailored to your needs. Custom pricing available upon request.
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ALUMA Frames (Prefabricated):
For more casual framing clients, we've created our ALUMA frame product. These simple black aluminum frames come in standard frame sizes with precut mats. Custom conservation matting also available. Pricing & sizing below.
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Cold Mounting:
Our studio is equipped with a cold mounting machine, which uses pressure sensitive adhesive to adhere images (up to 47" on the short edge) to a board. Board materials include: 3A Fome-Cor, 3A Sintra, and ACM Panel (aluminum composite material). Mounted images can be then framed or displayed as-is. General pricing below, custom available.

Mounting Prices:

Mounting
Sizes
3A Fome
Cor
3mm Sintra
(PVC)
3mm ACM Panel
(Finished Edge)
11 x 14
$20
$22
$44
16 x 20
$38
$42
$83
20 x 30
$63`
$70
$115
30 x 40
$81
$96
$212
40 x 50
$152
$194
$333

ALUMA Frame Prices:

Frame
Sizing
Included Mat Sizing
Retail Pricing
2+
Custom
Mat
(Wood Pulp)
Custom
Mat
(Cotton)
8 x 10 5 x 7 $35 $30 + $18 + $20
11 x 14 8 x 10 $45 $40 + $20 + $26
12 x 16 8 x 12 $55 $45 + $22 + $28
16 x 20 11 x 14 $75 $70 + $40 + $52
18 x 24 12 x 18 $100 $90 + $60 + $75

high-quality mounting & framing