The Born & Raised frame shop
Tour the shop
Every frame is built and fitted by hand in our own frame shop. Here is how an heirloom portrait is made, from the paper to the finish.
The portrait
Every portrait is made with professional cameras and controlled lighting.
The paper
Every portrait is printed on archival paper because the type of print matters.
The glass
Conservation glass protects each portrait from fading.
The frame
Every frame is built and fitted by hand in our frame shop.
The hands
Every engraving is done by hand and never by laser.
The finish
An heirloom is not finished until it hangs in your home.
Choosing the frame
Begin with where the portrait will hang. A petite frame belongs on a dresser or a bookshelf. A statement frame belongs over a mantel or at the end of a hallway. Then choose a moulding that suits your home and a mat that gives the portrait room to breathe.
Conservation glass and museum glass
Every heirloom is framed behind conservation glass, which protects the portrait from fading. Museum glass adds an anti-reflective coating. The glass nearly disappears and the portrait can be seen clearly in any light.
Caring for an heirloom portrait
- Keep your portrait out of direct sunlight. Even conservation glass cannot fully protect a portrait from years of direct sun.
- Hang it on an inside wall when you can. Keep it away from bathrooms and fireplaces and vents.
- Clean the glass gently. Spray a soft cloth rather than the glass so that nothing seeps under the frame.
- Leave the portrait in its frame. If anything comes loose, return it to your photographer.
- Write your child's name and age and the year on the back. Your grandchildren will be grateful that you did.