Knowledge Base




Wood Picture Frames


Metal Picture Frames

Poster Frames

Certificate Frames

Shadowboxes

Clip Frames

Acrylic Frames

Poster Hangers

View Cart

Frame Knowledge Base

Terms and Conditions

Policies

Custom Quotes

Shipping

Contact Us

Site Map

Check Order Status
We Manufacture

Wood Picture Frames,
Metal Picture Frames,
Poster Frames,
Plastic Frames,
Certificate Frames,
and several other innovative
framing products!










Glass & Styrene
  • What is styrene?
  • Why is glass only offered in sizes 11x14 and smaller?
  • Is Affordable Frames glass and styrene UV reflective?

    Frames
  • How do I know what frame size to choose?
  • What are the standard contents of each frame size?

    Hanging Options
  • What are some commong hanging options for wood frames?
  • How do I install a saw-tooth hanger?
  • How do I install a wire hanger?


    What is Styrene?(top)
    Properties
    Styrene is a type of thermoplastic and comes in a flexible sheet about 1/16 of an inch thick. It is used as an alternative to glass in our picture frame sizes larger than 11”x14”.

    Benefits
    Styrene weighs roughly half as much as glass, and is more shatter resistant than glass. These two factors can greatly reduce shipping costs. If humidity is a concern for the integrity of the frame’s contents, styrene is the material of choice. It is a better insulator than glass and is less likely to accumulate condensation.

    Care and Cleaning
    A thin plastic film protects both sides of the styrene during shipping and retail display. The film can then be easily removed by hand (see illustration).

    Clean styrene sheet with water and soft cloth. Do not use solvent.


    Why is glass only offered in sizes 11x14 and smaller?
    (top)
    Larger frames with glass are fragile and require special handling during packing and shipping. If glass is needed for sizes larger than 11x14 please call: 1-800-577-5920.

    Is your glass and styrene UV reflective?(top)
    The glazing on the glass and styrene used by Affordale Frames does not reflect ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet reflective glazing is used primarily for conservation framing. In contrast, the products sold by Affordable Frames are generally for decorative framing purposes.

  • How do I know what frame size to choose?(top)
    Measure the image or document you wish to frame. This measurement is also the size of the frame you would need to order.
    Measure Image
    If the size you require is not offered as a standard size, there are two options. You can order a custom size frame, or order the next largest standard size frame with a mat cut to make up the difference. For more information about our mat selection, please visit
    matdesigners.com. A frame’s dimensions refer to the size of its opening. It is a common mistake to think the dimensions are the width and height of its outside edges. Some frame styles will overlap the edges of an image more than others.

    Measure Frame

    What are the standard contents of each frame size? (top)

    The table below describes what contents are standard in each size:

    Size
    Includes
    Codes For Frame Contents
    4 x 6
    E/G
    E = Easel
    M = Real Mat
    S = Styrene
    G = Glass
    PE = Punch out Easel
    PH = Punch out Hanger
    WH = Wood Hanger
    Multiple contents are indicated by additional letter codes.
    4 x 7
    E/G
    4 x 12
    E/G
    5 x 5
    E/G
    5 x 7
    M/E/G
    7 x 7
    E/G
    8 x 8
    E/G
    8 x 10
    M/E/G
    8.5 x 11
    PE/G
    8 x 12
    E/G
    9 x 12
    G/WH
    10 x 13
    G/WH
    10 x 20
    S/WH
    11 x 14
    M/PH/G
    11 x 17
    S/WH
    12 x 12
    G/WH
    12 x 16
    S/Wh
    12 x 18
    S/WH
    14 x 18
    S/WH
    12 x 36
    S/WH
    16 x 20
    M/S/WH
    18 x 24
    S/WH
    20 x 24
    S/WH
    20 x 28
    S/WH
    22 x 28
    S/WH
    20 x 30
    S/WH
    24 x 30
    S/WH
    24 x 36
    S/WH
    27 x 39
    S/WH
    27 x 40
    S/WH
    27 x 41
    S/WH
       

    What are some common hanging methods? (top)

    Saw-Tooth Hanger


    A saw-tooth hanger is nailed into the back of a frame at top center. It is the easiest of the hanging options to install, making it a popular choice for basic framing projects. Because the weight of the frame is supported at a single point, saw-tooth hangers are best suited for smaller or lightweight frames. Saw-tooth hangers are also useful for hanging shadowboxes. Using one hanger near each of the two upper corners evenly distributes the frames weight, and keeps the back of the frame flush with the wall.


    Wire Hanger


    A wire hanging assembly consists of a length of wire and two eyehooks. The wire is strung between the two eyehooks, which are screwed into opposite sides of the frame. One of the benefits of a wire hanger is its ability to support heavier frames. The weight of the frame is divided between the two vertical sides of the frame. Also, the hanger assembly is secured to the frame using screws instead of nails. A wire hanger is used in conjunction with a picture hanger nailed into the wall.

    How do I install a saw-tooth hanger? (top)

    First, measure the width of the back of the frame and mark the center with a pen or pencil. On the saw-tooth hanger there is a raised dot. Position this dot over the mark you have made on the frame. Remove the contents of the frame before installing the hanger. The vibrations can cause glass to break. Using a hammer, gently tap the hanger into the frame. Using too much force can cause softer woods to split. Some harder woods will require more effort to attach the hanger.

    How do I install a wire hanger? (top)

    First, measure about one third down from the top of the frame and make a mark with a pen or pencil. Do the same on the opposite side. These marks are where the eyehooks will be installed. For softer woods, use eyehooks with wider thread patterns. Screw in the eyehooks completely. If this proves difficult, use the point of a nail to make a starter hole in the wood. An awl may also be used if one is available.


    Attach one end of the wire to one of the eyehooks as shown in the illustration. Wrap the short end around the longer portion several times to anchor the knot. Wrapping the wire tightly is important for securely hanging the frame. Attach the other end of the wire to the opposite eyehook.

    Do not pull the wire completely taut. Doing so causes the eyehooks to become loose over time. This is especially true for softer woods and heavier frames. Trim any excess wire using a wire cutter.

    Lastly, install a picture hanger in the wall where the frame is to be hung. Be sure to use a hanger appropriate for the wall’s construction and the picture’s weight. If you are unsure about which picture hanging hardware to use, consult your local hardware store.

    |Affordable Picture Frames | Movie Poster Frames | Plastic Poster Frames | Metal Picture Frames | Site Map |
    Click Here For Amazing Deals
    on Closeout Frames!
    Frame Closeouts
    Everybodys PostersMat Designers