Hobby Lobby Custom Framing Prices: Glass, Matting Options Detailed

Hobby Lobby’s custom framing prices vary widely, depending on what you need framed and how you want it to look. You can expect to pay about $40 for a small frame with standard options or up to $600 or more for a large frame with premium options. Learn more about Hobby Lobby custom framing prices below.

Hobby Lobby Custom Framing Prices Detailed

Custom framing at Hobby Lobby can cost anywhere from $40 to more than $600. Pricing depends on the size of the image, the frame itself, the glass covering, the mat backing, and other customizations. We spoke with framing department representatives at Hobby Lobby stores in Ohio, Tennessee, New Mexico, and Virginia to get an idea of what goes into custom framing price estimates.

Hobby Lobby representatives said the glass is typically the most expensive part of a custom frame order (although some of the premium frame options can cost more than the glass). Hobby Lobby stores offer three different glass qualities, as well as an acrylic covering, for custom frame projects.

• Conservation clear: This type of glass is best for photos displayed in rooms with low levels of light; conservation clear glass costs about $10 for an 8-by-10-inch frame and $35 for a 24-by-36-inch frame.
• Conservation reflection control: You’ll want to choose this type of glass for photos that will be exposed to average amounts of light; conservation reflection control glass costs about $12 for an 8-by-10-inch frame and $60 for a 24-by-36-inch frame.
• Museum glass: This type of glass is best for artwork or detailed photos displayed in shadowboxes or in rooms with a lot of light; museum glass is the most expensive option at $25 for an 8-by-10-inch frame and $120 for a 24-by-36-inch frame.
• Acrylic: A lightweight and durable covering; acrylic coverings cost about $20 for an 8-by-10-inch frame and about $80 for a 24-by-36-inch frame.

Other cost considerations are the frame material and mat backing (optional). Hobby Lobby carries more than 350 styles of molding for custom frame orders starting at $8 for an 8-by-10-inch frame. All custom frames at Hobby Lobby are sold at 50% off retail prices, representatives said.

Mats are often used in custom framing projects to back photos, posters, or images and provide an appealing display. Standard-size mats are cheaper than custom-cut mats. Hobby Lobby offers more than 300 different types of acid-free, archival-quality mats starting at $8 for an 8-by-10-inch frame.

In addition to custom framing, you can also bring a frame you already own to Hobby Lobby along with the item you want to frame. When you bring your own frame, Hobby Lobby charges a labor fee based on the size of the frame; a 16-inch by 20-inch frame, for example, will generally cost about $12, customer service associates said. You do not need an appointment to use the framing services at Hobby Lobby.

How Does Hobby Lobby Custom Framing Compare to Michaels?

Custom framing prices at Michaels typically run a bit higher than at Hobby Lobby. According to Michael’s in-store framing page on its website, custom frames start at $59 for an 8-by-10-inch project. A large frame with premium options can cost up about $850. Keep in mind, Michaels listed prices include the frame, glass, and mat — and in-store coupons are often available.

In Summary

Because Hobby Lobby has a wide range of custom framing options, your project can cost anywhere from about $40 to more than $600, depending on the size of the image and the type of frame, glass, and mat you choose. However, Hobby Lobby’s custom framing costs tend to be lower than its largest direct competitor, Michaels.

Looking for more information about Hobby Lobby? Check out our other articles on Hobby Lobby’s classes, Hobby Lobby’s return policy, and where to buy Hobby Lobby gift cards.