Framing FAQ

1.  How do I order a product?

2.  What are the benefits of using a mat?

3.  Are your mats acid-free? 
4.  What color is your mat?

5.  How do we determine our mat border size?
6.  How should I choose my frame colors?
7.  How should I clean my acrylic glazing (plexi-glass)?
8.  When will my order ship?
9.  I’ve placed my order and now I’d like to add to it. Is that possible?
10. Can you tell me what is in each box on my order?
11. Where is the hardware in my box? I can’t find it? 
 
1.  How do I order a product?

Utilize the navigation menu on the left hand side of the page to find a category of photos to view.  Scroll down the page to find a specific product you want to view and click on the image or "Click to view photo detail".  Select Framing, Select Framing Color, Qty and Add to Cart.  Samples of framing colors are listed on the product page. 

2.  What are the benefits of using a mat?
 
Many people look at mats strictly for their aesthetic qualities, but mats do serve a purpose beyond just looking good. In fact, the primary purpose of a mat is to protect artwork by creating space between the art and the acrylic sheet or glazing for air to circulate, thus protecting the artwork from damage over time.
What else do they do? Mats add value to reproductions and suggest importance, indicating the artwork is worth that "little extra touch." Matting helps draw the viewer's eye into the picture while at the same time providing a neutral setting in which the art can be appreciated.

3.  Are your mats acid-Free?

Yes.  The high quality of mat we utilize is made of 100% virgin alpha-cellulose, ligin and acid-free with fade and bleed-resistant.  It is a conservation-grade line ideal for any type of fine art photography.

4.  What color is your mat?

White.

 
5.  How do we determine our mat border size?
 
While there is no mathematical equation, a good rule of thumb is to provide enough border to create a smooth transition from the artwork to the frame so as not to lose the picture among the matting. Most mats range in width from 1 1/2" for smaller projects (such as an 5" x 8" image) to 6" on projects that measure above 30" x 40".  We utilize a 3" mat around all of our artwork so it looks optically-centered.  If you have a special request outside a 3" mat please email us at cs@terrytoolephotography.com or call us at (206) 335-7959 so we can quote you a price prior to placing your order.
 
6.  How should I choose my frame colors?
 
We offer four (4) Standard Wood Frame colors: Black, Cherry, Coffee, Mahogany and two (2) Upgrade Wood Frame colors: Black/Brown and Silver.  All frame color choices are shown on the product page.  If you need help with your color schemes, the color wheel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Color_wheel) provides an easy way to see how colors relate to one another. Using one color, with a range of shades, tints and intensity (monochromatic color), is soothing to the eye. Colors next to each other on the wheel (related colors) have a calming effect when the colors are dull or muted. Colors directly across from each other on the wheel (complementary colors) create more visual impact because of their obvious differences in hue and intensity.
 
7.  How should I clean my acrylic glazing (plexi-glass)?
 
When it comes to cleaning acrylic sheets, remember one key point: acrylic is plastic, not glass. Do not use glass cleaners and paper towels or the surface will become cloudy and scratched. We recommend using “Acrylic/Plexi-glass Cleaner and Polish” with a soft cotton cloth.
 
8.  When will my order ship?
 
Orders containing framing materials usually ship within 4-5 business days. If you’ve ordered a framed print, please allow 5-7 business days. If you are in a rush, please call us at (206) 335-7959, Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 6:00pm (Pacific Time Zone) and we will see what can be done to expedite your order.
 
9.  I’ve placed my order and now I’d like to add to it. Is that possible?
 
Although we are unable to add to an order in process, we would be glad to take a new order the same business day.
 
10.  Can you tell me what is in each box on my order?

At this time, we are not able to get that information to you. Since all orders are custom, the contents of each box are determined at the point of packaging to arrive in perfect condition.
 
11.  Where is the hardware in my box? I can’t find it?

The hardware is placed in one end of your box wrapped in brown Kraft paper.