My Honest Guide to Finding the Perfect Frame at Michaels
Walking into a Michaels store can feel like stepping into a candy shop for crafters and home decorators. Aisles brim with possibilities, but the sheer volume of choices, especially in the frame section, can be overwhelming. You're there with a mission: to find the perfect enclosure for a precious memory or a piece of art. But where do you even begin? Whether you're looking for a classic michaels photo frame for a wedding portrait or a trendy michaels craft frame for a child's artwork, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to navigate the options with confidence.
More Than Just a Craft Store: Michaels' Frame Selection
It's a common question: does michaels sell frames? The answer is a resounding yes, and they offer a far more extensive selection than most realize. Michaels frames go far beyond the basic black and white options you might find at a big-box store. Their inventory is thoughtfully curated to cater to a wide range of tastes and projects, making it a one-stop shop for both everyday framing needs and special, custom pieces.
Exploring the Different Types of Frames at Michaels
Understanding the categories of frames available is the first step to finding your perfect match. The selection can generally be broken down into a few key areas.
Ready-Made Photo Frames
This is the heart of the michaels frames collection. These are standard-size frames, pre-assembled and ready for you to pop in your photo. You'll find everything from sleek, modern metal frames to ornate, wooden antique-style ones. The sizes are vast, catering to everything from tiny 4x6 snapshots to large 24x36 posters. This is often the quickest and most affordable solution for standard-sized photographs.
Custom Framing Services
For your most valuable pieces—be it in monetary or sentimental value—Michaels' custom framing service is a fantastic resource. This isn't just about picking a frame; it's about preservation and presentation. Expert framers guide you through choosing from hundreds of frame mouldings, mats, and protective glass options, including conservation-grade materials that protect your art from UV light and acid damage. While an investment, this service transforms a simple piece into a professional-grade display.
Collage and Multi-Opening Frames
Perfect for telling a story or showcasing a series of memories, these frames allow you to display multiple photos in one unified piece. Michaels offers a huge variety of these, with layouts ranging from two openings to over twenty, in both horizontal and vertical orientations.
Shadow Boxes
When you have a three-dimensional object you want to display—a wedding bouquet, a military medal, a child's first shoes—a shadow box is the answer. These deep frames provide the depth needed to artfully arrange and preserve cherished objects behind glass.
A Personal Framing Story: Preserving a Travel Memory
I recently returned from a trip to Italy with a beautiful, fragile ceramic tile I'd purchased from a small artisan shop in Sorrento. It was too thick for a standard frame and too precious to handle with anything but care. I was nervous about how to display it. I took it to my local Michaels and was immediately put at ease. The framing specialist didn't just show me a catalogue; she asked about the piece, its significance, and the room where it would live. Together, we chose a simple, deep-profile wooden frame and a custom-cut mat that complemented the blue hues in the tile's design without overpowering it. She explained how the spacers would keep the glass from touching the ceramic surface. Weeks later, when I picked up the finished piece, it was flawless. That tile is now a centerpiece in my home, and the professional framing elevated it from a souvenir to a work of art. It was a reminder that the right frame doesn't just hold something; it honors it.
Tips for Your Next Michaels Frame Shopping Trip
To make the most of the photo frames at michaels, keep these tips in mind:
- Measure Twice: Before you go, know the exact dimensions of your photo or artwork. Don't forget to note if it's a vertical or horizontal image.
- Bring a Swatch: If the frame is for a specific room, bring a fabric swatch or a photo of the wall color to help match the frame to your decor.
- Check for Sales: Michaels is famous for its frequent coupons and sales. Rarely pay full price! Check their app or website for current promotions on both ready-made and custom frames.
- Consider the Mat: Don't overlook the power of a mat. It gives the art breathing room, adds a color pop, and can make a standard-sized frame work for a smaller photo.
- Ask for Help: The staff in the framing department are knowledgeable. If you're unsure, ask for their opinion. They see thousands of pieces and can offer valuable insight on what works best.
Answering Your Michaels Frame Questions
Does Michaels only sell frames for photos? Absolutely not. While michaels photo frames are a huge category, they also sell frames specifically for diplomas, certificates, posters, and canvases. Their custom framing service can handle virtually any object, from jerseys to antique maps.
Are Michaels' frames good quality? The quality varies by price point, as with any retailer. Their ready-made frames offer solid value for the price, especially when purchased on sale. Their custom framing uses high-quality materials from reputable brands, ensuring your piece is preserved for years to come.
What is the price range? Ready-made michaels craft frames can start as low as a few dollars on sale. Custom framing is a significant investment, with prices varying dramatically based on the size, materials, and complexity of the design. Always get a free quote before committing.
The Final Verdict on Michaels Frames
From a simple michael picture frame for a desk to a heirloom-quality custom creation, Michaels has established itself as a reliable and comprehensive destination for all things framing. Their strength lies in the combination of accessible, affordable ready-made options and a professional, expert-led custom service. By understanding what's available and going in with a plan (and a coupon!), you can confidently find or create the perfect frame to celebrate your memories and artwork for years to come.
