Frequently Asked Questions

Custom framing isn't something we do as regularly as say....going out to eat or paying our electric bill.  It's natural to feel in the dark about less frequent expenditures.

I always tell people that there are so many variables in framing, from glass and mat choices, to the huge variety of frame samples we offer, that air-grab pricing is tough to nail down.  I'll walk you through, starting at the most economical.

$ Pre-made frames are available in a variety of sizes, and can save money if what we have suits your needs depending on the size of your art. The selection isn't always extensive, but sometimes they work perfectly.

We can add mats and glass too!

$$ In-house moulding can be cut to specific sizes, and offer an in-between option if full custom is not in the budget. We usually stock some basic black moulding and a few other styles.  

$$$ Custom:

The beauty of custom-selected materials is the extensive variety of colors and textures, detailed sizing (down to the sixteenth of an inch!) and a hand-picked look that will be noticeable to anyone who sees it.  Think of it in terms of wine.  If you've had the good stuff, it's hard to go back to box wine, but not all occasions call for Don Melchor.  We get that!  

The answer depends on what we're framing for you, whether or not the materials are in stock or custom ordered, and the quantity of items in your order. Time of year can also affect turn around times.

The simplest projects (small glass replacements and mat cuts) can be done the same or next day.

Full custom orders will generally take 2-4 weeks.

Specialty projects and large quantity orders can take longer.  We can work with deadlines to a degree, but it's a good idea to plan ahead with your framing project, especially during Christmastime.  

Because we are a small boutique shop that focuses on quality over quantity, we have one project on the table at a time.  When it's your project, that's our complete focus.  It can be hard to be patient when our current world has us conditioned to fast-paced and immediate gratification.

Hands-on craftsmanship takes time.

Not currently.  First come, first serve has been effective thus far.  

I do welcome feedback on this, however.

If you come in and find that I'm helping someone else, and waiting is proving inconvenient, please feel free to speak up.

I can usually help a few people design framing projects at one time.  

If you find you have a potentially  time-consuming project to discuss, (10 or more projects to design), I am happy to meet you outside regular walk-in hours.

People ask me this a lot!

My best answer is few-fold.  Firstly, I'm an animal lover and have always thought a business mascot was a fun idea.  

Second, I didn't want my business to get lost in the sea of "7B This" or "North Idaho That". (No offense to those who have those names!)

"Toad Alley" has a nice phonetic sensibility.

Lastly, who doesn't love a good toad?  He's photogenic, grounded, reliable, and exudes the highest moral and social standards.