@Whitney-Simms You have no idea how much research I've put into framing. It is truly a stumbling block in gallery art/art fairs if you don't know what you are doing. So here's what I've learned:
1. Work in common sizes
The big framing costs come from having to custom frame something that is a weird size. There are some great places online to frame if you already have art made, but moving forward only make art in sizes that work for standard sized frames and mats that are pre-made! This tip alone can save you literally thousands of dollars. I've listed below the common sizes of frame/mat combo so you know what size to make the art. I typically work at 24x30 or 30x40 for my newer work.
2. Frame DEPTH and WIEGHT
This is how deep the frame is from the side. Why in the world would this size matter? Well, there is only so much room in your vehicle or trailer. If you use frames that are 1" deep instead of 2" deep, you can bring TWICE AS MUCH ART TO THE SHOW.
Weight is also a huge factor. If you are painting on deep canvas or cradled panels, you will need a deeper frame to fit it. That means weight. Weight and shipping don't go well together! I try to keep my frames and art as light and thin as possible for shipping and transportation.
3. Try to frame nice, but keep costs down!
You aren't trying to actually frame the work for the audience. You should assume they will frame it themselves later. So your frame is to show the art off in a nice way and to protect it during travel and shipping. I'd much rather break a frame corner than the corner of my painting! Keep the framing VERY SIMPLE. Either black wood frames with nice white mat or natural wood finish like maple has a very modern feel. Buy in bulk and keep all the frames consistent.
OK, here's some resources:
Custom Framing: If you already have weird sized art, I recommend going up a size with the frame and getting a custom mat with a standard sized frame. But if you have to have a weird size frame, these guys are great!: www.frankenframes.com
Custom mat: If you want really nice thick mats, these guys are great. You can have custom size art or whatever you want really for a very good price: www.matboardplus.com
Great standard size frames:
Floater Frames (these look great and quality is great too). Only snag is limited sizes: https://www.dickblick.com/products/blick-maplewood-floater-frames/
Maple Floater frames at all kinds of sizes. This is who I am using to frame my next show. They are cheap and beautiful! I'm painting on panels which allow me to use their panel frames. These are only .75" thick so I can bring a lot of art. These guys have a lot of sizes and they are wonderful to work with. Highly recommended: www.canvasplace.com
Glad you guys are liking this episode and I hope this helps with some of the framing questions. Let me know if you need anything else. : )
-Lee