Custom Frame Buying Guide: Everything to Know Before You Order
Custom Frame Buying Guide: Everything to Know Before You Order
Ordering from Smallwoods takes 2 minutes: upload photo, pick size and color, checkout. Handcrafted in East Texas, ships 1–3 business days. Here's everything to know.
Choose Your Product
- Framed Print ($69–$139) — Canvas-textured board, real wood. Most popular
- Acrylic Frame ($69–$139) — Same + UV acrylic. Best protection
- Framed Canvas ($89–$159) — Real canvas, floating frame. Premium
- Wrapped Canvas ($69–$139) — Gallery-wrap, no frame. Modern
- Hanging Canvas ($85–$109) — Wood rails + twine. Boho
- Wood Cutouts ($69–$139) — 6 shapes. Unique
Size Guide
| Size | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8x10 | Shelf, nightstand | $69 |
| 13x13 | Gallery wall | $79 |
| 16x16 | Above desk | $99 |
| 25x17 | Above couch — BEST SELLER | $109 |
| 44x22 | Panoramic statement | $139 |
Frame Colors
- Stained — Dark walnut, classic
- Almond — Light, coastal
- Black — Modern, bold
- White — Clean, contemporary
- Natural — Rustic (select products)
Upload Tips
Accepts JPG, PNG, HEIC, TIFF, PSD, DNG, PDF, WebP. Smartphone photos work perfectly. Add text with 40+ fonts.
Budget Planning
- Single piece: $69–$139
- Gallery wall (6 frames): $400–$600 with bundle pricing
- Budget gallery (6 IG Minis): $179.94
- Bundle: Over half off when you buy 2+
FAQ
Best photo format?
JPG or PNG from camera roll. Not screenshots from social media.
Can I cancel?
Contact support immediately — production starts within hours.
Hanging hardware included?
Yes. Ready to hang with instructions on back.
Return policy?
Custom items non-returnable. 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Best price?
Buy 2+ for over half off. Custom Customs from $39. IG Minis $29.99.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when buying a custom frame?
Look for handcrafted quality (real wood, not plastic), color options that match your decor, and a company with a satisfaction guarantee. Smallwoods offers 10+ frame colors made in East Texas.
What's the difference between a framed print and a canvas?
Framed prints use a canvas-textured board mounted in a wood frame — clean, classic look. Canvas prints (wrapped or framed) have more texture and depth, better for artistic or lifestyle photos.
How do I choose the right frame size?
Measure your wall space, then subtract 6–12 inches on each side for visual breathing room. For a single focal point, 20×24 to 24×30 works for most walls.
What are the most popular frame colors at Smallwoods?
Black, white, and natural wood (honey/walnut tones) are perennially popular. Dark walnut and gray also trend strongly for modern and farmhouse aesthetics.
How long does a custom frame order take?
Smallwoods produces all frames in 1–3 business days at their East Texas facility. Shipping adds 3–7 business days depending on your location.