My Honest Guide to Finding the Perfect Frames at Michaels

Walking into a Michaels store can feel like entering a treasure trove for creatives, but if you're specifically on the hunt for a picture frame, the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming. From sleek, modern metal designs to ornate, vintage-inspired wood carvings, the selection is vast. Whether you're looking to preserve a cherished memory, display a piece of original art, or simply add a decorative touch to your wall, understanding what Michaels offers can transform a potentially stressful shopping trip into a successful one.

Navigating the Aisles: What to Expect

First-time visitors might wonder, does Michaels have frames? The answer is a resounding yes. Michaels is a primary destination for all things framing, offering two distinct avenues: ready-made frames and custom framing services. The ready-made section is typically a sprawling array of choices, organized by size, style, and sometimes color. You'll find everything from standard 4x6 and 5x7 sizes to larger poster frames and multi-opening collage frames. The key is to go in with a general idea of the size you need and the aesthetic you're aiming for.

For those with a specific, odd-sized, or incredibly valuable piece, the custom framing counter is your best bet. Here, experts can help you select from hundreds of mats, mouldings, and glass types, including conservation-grade options to protect your art from UV light and aging. While this is a more involved and costly process, the result is a perfectly tailored piece designed to last a lifetime.

The Hunt for Michaels Cheap Frames

Let's talk budget. Framing, especially custom work, can be expensive. However, Michaels has consistently proven to be a source for affordable options if you know where to look. The store regularly rotates sales on its ready-made frames, with frequent buy-one-get-one-free or 50% off promotions. The best strategy is to never pay full price. Signing up for their email alerts or checking their weekly ad online will give you a heads-up on the latest deals.

Beyond sales, the clearance aisle is a goldmine for discounted frames. Often, these are discontinued styles or last season's inventory, but they are perfectly functional and can be incredibly stylish. I've found stunning, high-quality wood frames for a fraction of their original price simply by taking an extra five minutes to browse the endcaps and clearance sections. Another tip is to consider multi-packs. For a gallery wall or a series of family photos, these packs offer a consistent look at a lower per-unit cost.

More Than Just Photos: Michaels Art Frames

While the term 'picture frames' often brings photos to mind, Michaels' inventory extends far beyond that. Their selection of michaels art frames is impressive, catering to canvas panels, shadow boxes for three-dimensional memorabilia, and float frames for artwork on paper that you want to display without a mat. For anyone looking to present a diploma, certificate, or a child's prized artwork, the document and certificate frames offer a clean, professional look.

The quality of these frames varies, which is why it's important to handle them in the store. Check the closure mechanisms on the back—some use easy-to-operate spring clips, while cheaper models might have flimsy metal tabs that are difficult to secure. The clarity of the included glass or acrylic is also a factor. For any piece you truly care about, upgrading to acrylic is worth considering. It's lighter and much more shatter-resistant than glass, making it safer for homes with children or for larger frames that will be shipped.

A Personal Framing Success Story

I recently inherited a beautiful, fragile needlepoint piece from my grandmother. It was an odd size, stretched on a thin wooden frame, and had faded slightly over the decades. I was terrified of damaging it with a DIY approach. I took it to the custom framing counter at my local Michaels, feeling a mix of hope and anxiety.

The consultant was wonderfully patient. We spent nearly 45 minutes looking at mat samples to find a color that complemented the vintage hues of the thread without overpowering it. We chose a simple, dark wood moulding and, most importantly, museum glass. This glass has an anti-reflective coating that makes the artwork look like it's floating, with no glare obscuring the view, and it blocks 99% of UV rays to prevent further fading. The price was an investment, but when I picked up the finished piece, I was nearly moved to tears. They had handled my grandmother's artwork with such care, and the presentation was stunning. It felt less like a purchase and more like a preservation of memory. This experience solidified for me that while ready-made frames are great for everyday needs, the custom service exists for those irreplaceable items.

Online vs. In-Store: A Quick Comparison

Michaels' website is a useful tool for getting a sense of the inventory, especially if you're looking for a specific style or size. You can filter results by color, material, and price. However, I strongly recommend viewing frames in person if possible. The color on your screen can be misleading, and the weight, texture, and overall feel of a frame are difficult to judge online. The online selection for custom framing is also available, allowing you to start a project from home, but the in-store consultation is invaluable for making final decisions on matting and moulding pairing.

Final Tips for Your Framing Journey

To make the most of your trip to Michaels for pictures frames, keep these final tips in mind. Always measure your artwork twice before you go. Bring a tape measure with you to the store to double-check the frame's listed dimensions, as sometimes the actual opening can be slightly different. Don't forget the hardware—many ready-made frames come with sawtooth hangers or wire already attached, but it's always good to confirm. For a cohesive look in a room, consider sticking to two or three frame finishes to create harmony amidst variety.

In conclusion, Michaels is a reliable and versatile source for all your framing needs. With a strategic approach to sales, a willingness to explore both ready-made and custom options, and a clear vision for your project, you can find the perfect michaels picture to house your memories and art beautifully and affordably. The journey to find the right frame is part of the story, and Michaels provides the tools to tell it well.