We generally use a local independent framing store. I've used Michaels in the past and the work was fine. The independent store seems to have a larger frame selection.

ETA: Can we see some of your drawings?

I agree with Jojo. For really professional job, go to an independent small business.

We have lost most, if not all, of our local, independent framers .. there was one remaining shop nearby but he got sick and closed up shop.

I have used Michaels also -- but being a big box store, I have come to expect that there will be varying degrees of skill/attention across associates. I hate to admit it but when I am an annoying customer when framing something special or larger/more expensive. I make sure they understand every detail. If I am going to spend over $500 on a frame, glass etc. I want it the way I want it. Smaller pieces or more standard frame jobs, I buy the materials and frame myself.

I have a side business that involves framing my work, and I have always had the best quality and service from Frame Destination. I highly recommend them.

eta, this is for if you want to frame the art yourself.

We have always gone to small independent stores. I tend to rely on them for helping me narrow down my choices.

I use a local place that does framing and bicycle repair.

You heard me.

Although I have no idea how he arrived at providing those two disparate services, I always enjoy seeing the framed art among the bicycles.

I also use a local shop, conveniently located 5 blocks away.

I like my local shop because the owner has better framing and matting ideas than I have. Her decades of experience give her a flair I lack.

Anyone else remember the ”Frame it Yourself” stores that were once popular? Are there any still in business?

We have had good luck at Michaels.

I either do it myself using pre-cut mats that I buy at art stores/Michael's or I use Michael's framing service. I've been quite happy with their work.

It's lovely and if an example of your work, I can see why you want to frame and display it. I'm impressed!

I've used a local frame and gallery shop. And you're right, it's not inexpensive. I've paid more for the framing and matting a couple of times than I spent on the art.

We no longer have a Michaels. I shouldn't admit when I shop the nearest city that does as often as I do, how often I will leave here without the art, measurements, anything I need even if I did have time to fit in one more errand.

That's beautiful, Prickly! Thanks for sharing it.

I use a local guy who has a frame shop behind his house. Nice job and reasonably priced.

Thank you so much for your kind words @morz8 - Washington Coast and @Feathers11!

@morz8 - Washington Coast that is so frustrating when you have a bunch of errands to run and manage to forget something critical at home and have to make multiple long trips! I was definitely shocked at the Michael's price this time. This piece is quite small 6 x 8 and the frame choice was nothing special (simple MDF) and it still came out to $90. Perhaps a local frameshop without the overhead of a big corporation could at least match that kind of price.

Wow! Your work is fabulous! You should proudly display it.

I used to go to JoAnn's as there was a fellow there who was very good with a great eye and very careful with our stuff, but he's there no longer. I find you really are dependent on the skill and talent of the individual which can vary widely. Last piece I had done at a local business that was recommended on a local FB page and they did an excellent job.

I go to Modernist Frame & Design in Palm Springs Uptown Design District if I want a frame with glass or acrylic.

For paintings, my brother and I go to a moulding shop in the San Fernando Valley and buy raw wood and make and finish the frames ourselves. We had to do a lot of these when Kevin had an exhibit at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica.

Hobby Lobby sells left over framing material from their custom frame shop pennies on the dollar. I have a miter box and cut my own from their materials. Or....I buy something framed and put MY artwork in it. I just did that recently with a photo my husband took. 20" X 40" print.

In most things, including framing, I try to support local small businesses and forgo using places like Michael's or Joanne's. Like Walmart, those are the places running the small businesses out of business. The amount of $ difference is small when compared to my annual budget.

We have a wonderful art gallery whose owner does amazing framing, so I've used her and also a smallish frame shop. The gallery also has a small art space that can be rented for events and she sometimes has hosted concerts there. It's a wonderful business to support and would be missed if she had to close.