Why Hangups Gallery?

Custom framing involves creativity, design, craftsmanship and quality materials. We have been in the art & framing business for over 25 years. Our expert framers will work with you to create that just right custom framed piece of art. Our everyday prices are the lowest in the industry so you will never pay too much. Your project will be ready in a week or less, fastest turn around time in the industry. Need something framed the same day? We can handle it with our selection of in stock mouldings.

What about the Craft Store?

Let me ask…would you take your car to the hobby store for a tune-up or your watch to the plumber for repair. No, you'd take it to a specialist. So, is custom framing the same everywhere? Custom framing involves creativity, design, craftsmanship and quality materials. If you need that special piece of art framed, let the qualified specialists at Hangups Gallery go to work for you. Collectively, we have over a half century of experience.

What can I frame?

We pride ourselves on our ability to frame practically anything. From original works of art, to limited edition and fine art prints, mirrors, sports jerseys, precious artifacts and collectables, certificates, diplomas, awards, ribbons…the stuff that just made us proud ….you name it, we've seen it all. Hangups Gallery we have all the right materials , techniques, training and know how to properly frame just about anything that comes our way.

How do I know I'm going to like the finished piece?

Buying a piece of art can be downright risky. What if you don't like it once you get it home and on the wall. At Hangups Gallery, we understand that sometimes, what you see in the store just isn't the same when you get it home. That's why we offer a full satisfaction guarantee. Take the piece home, check it out and if it's not quite right, bring it back and we'll make it right. Now that's a design guarantee you'll only find at Hangups Gallery.

Does Hangups Gallery sell artwork?

Hangups Gallery carries the largest selection of posters, fine art prints, limited edition prints, and original art in the Midwest. We stock over 3,000 images and display nearly 300 framed pieces in our 6,000 square foot award winning gallery. We are the largest gallery / frame shop in the area. And if you can't find that special piece in the gallery, you can browse over 200,000 prints on our in house computer resource center.

What is Preservation Framing?

Preservation framing (sometimes called conservation or archival framing) is the method we use to frame your artwork in a completely acid free environment. We use the highest quality mats, mounting boards and framing techniques to shield your valuable artwork against the effects of sunlight and pollutants that yellow, fade and damage the art. We employ the industry standards for the preservation of your most valued and cherished pieces. Your design consultant at will discuss with you which method is right for your artwork. You can be that it will be properly framed at Hangups Gallery.

Why do I need preservation framing?

A key component of professional picture framing is the ability to preserve the original condition of the items, both at the time they are being framed and in the event that the framing, mounting and matting is removed at a later date. Preservation picture framing, also know as conservation picture framing and museum quality framing, uses materials and techniques that help protect Archival matting, hinging and UV protective glazing (glass or acrylic) are most commonly used to increase the longevity of framed items. For information on framing antique photographs, see "Stand the Test of Time".

Should I have my artwork mounted?

Mounting is a process by which artwork is attached to a board. Dry mounting, wet mounting and spray mounting are ways to prevent the artwork from bubbling or waving in the frame. Artwork of any value is not generally mounted since it can greatly affect any resale value. Museum mounting, commonly known as hinging, is when the art is attached with paper hinges to the board. The art hangs free, allowing it to expand or contract with humidity. Dry and wet mountings are permanent processes and not recommended for archival materials.

Why is custom picture framing so expensive?

By definition, a custom picture frame is one of a kind. Each item is individually handled by or trained, experienced professionals. A well designed, well made custom frame will last for many more years than the sofa or drapes in your home. Each custom frames is a unique, one-of-a-kind, personalized accessory for your home.

How do your prices compare?

We just don't make a big issue out of our prices, but, our customers continually tell us that we really are the least expensive in town…even when the competition is running their blockbuster "50% off" sale. How do you discount custom framing….you mark it up double then cut the price in half. At Hangups Gallery we don't play this game. There's no reason to wait for a sale. Our prices are always the same and in most cases, lower than the competition. We only look like a million bucks…come check us out.

What causes the variances in the prices of a picture frame?

Characteristics including type and grade of wood, along with the style of finish and method used to create the finish are just a few. Some manufacturers use lighter, low-grade woods and strictly machine finish their products. Others use only the finest high quality wood for their moulding and combine various finishing methods to achieve the desired look. Hangups Gallery offers over 3000 different samples of picture frame mouldings and a wide variety of prices.

Why do I need a mat?

Matting is the term used to describe the window-cut material placed around an image within a frame. It serves as a spacer between the glass and the artwork. It allows the art to expand and contract with changes in humidity. Matting comes in a variety of colors and is chosen to complement the color and design of the artwork. It adds visual dimension to the artwork increasing the overall size of the finished piece. Matting can be made from a variety of materials: paper, cardboard, fibrous materials, etc. Hangups Gallery uses only acid free rag mats which offer the best protection and ensures that your art will last for years to come.

What about fabric mats?

The use of fabric mats can really add a distinct elegance to your framed art. Whether it is suede, linen, silk or various other fabrics, the colors and textures of fabric take your framing design to a new level. If you cannot find a precovered fabric mat to suit your needs, we can hand wrap any fabric over an existing mat or liner. We have over 300 fabric swatches to choose from.

How long does it take?

The average turn around time in the framing industry is 2 - 3 weeks. At Hangups Gallery our normal time for custom framing is 3 -5 days. If it's more than 7 days, we apologize. If you are in a rush, we can actually have it for you the same day. We care a variety of in stock mouldings and mats for these special occasions.

Will you frame something using a frame I already have?

You bet. Frequently, customers will bring in an old antique frame that they've found in the attic or had in the family. Sometimes it's just good to give that favorite old piece of art a "facelift", an "overhaul", if you will. Bring it in; we'll freshen up the mats, update the materials, put new glass in, change out the art…whatever.

Why protect artwork from ultraviolet light?

Ultraviolet light is one of the greatest sources of damage to artwork. The natural ultraviolet protection afforded by regular glass has limiting protection for your artwork. Unfortunately, the upper end of the ultraviolet spectrum of light is the most hazardous. To aid in the protection, Hangups Gallery, employs a full line of UV reflective glazings. A thin film is placed over the surface of the glazing affording you up to 98% protection from harmful UV rays. Our designers and framers are well versed in the proper application of these glazings and will assist you in selecting the proper application for you framed art. Select a conservation series glazing for you art and avoid hanging it in direct sunlight or under any other ultraviolet source and you can e sure that your farmed piece will last for years to come.