Frequently Asked Questions
The questions I hear most, answered in one place. Don't see yours? Email me at andrew@atlaswoodcompany.com. I answer every message myself.
Ordering and sizing
What size frame do I order?
Order by the size of your canvas, not the frame. Every canvas frame is built around the canvas itself, so a 16 × 20 canvas gets a frame for a 16 × 20 canvas. The outside of the frame measures your canvas size plus 1 3/8" in width and height.
How do I measure my canvas?
Measure the canvas itself, not the image and not an old frame. Run the tape across the front, edge to edge, for both width and height. The nearest 1/8 inch is perfect. For depth, measure from the wall side of the canvas to the painted face. I check every measurement before I cut.
Which canvas depth do I need?
Most store-bought canvases are about 3/4" deep. Gallery-wrapped canvases, where the painting continues around the sides, are usually about 1 1/2". Art panels and boards are often closer to 1/8". Choose the depth that matches your canvas, from 1/8" to 2".
My canvas isn't a standard size. Can you still frame it?
Yes. Most of my orders are custom sizes. On any canvas frame page, choose Custom size and enter your canvas to the nearest 1/8 inch. Your price appears instantly for anything from 8 × 10 to 36 × 48. Larger than that? Send me the size and I'll quote it personally.
Do you frame things other than canvas?
Yes. I build frames for instant film photos, record sleeves, and desktop photos, plus ledge shelves to display them. If you have something else in mind, tell me about it.
Wood and finish
Which wood should I choose?
Walnut is deep brown with dramatic grain. White oak is light and textured, with a modern edge. Cherry starts a soft pinkish brown and deepens to a rich red. Maple is the lightest and quietest, for when you want the art to carry the room. Still deciding? The sample set puts all four next to your art for $10.
Will the wood change color over time?
A little, and that's part of real wood. Cherry darkens the most, to a deep golden red over the first few years. Walnut slowly mellows to a warmer brown. Maple and white oak stay light and warm only slightly with age.
What are corner splines?
Small keys of wood set across each corner joint. They reinforce the joint and show that the frame was built, not stamped. Choose a spline that matches the frame for a quiet look, or a contrasting wood to show off the joinery.
What finish do you use, and how do I care for it?
A hand-rubbed hard wax oil. No solvents, no varnish, no VOCs. To care for it, dust with a soft, dry cloth.
Building and shipping
How long will my order take?
Nothing is pulled off a shelf. Every frame is built from rough lumber after you order, so most orders ship in about two weeks. Need it by a certain date? Email me before you order and I'll tell you honestly whether I can make it.
How much is shipping, and where do you ship?
Shipping is free on every order, anywhere in the United States, with tracking.
Will I hear from you while it's being made?
Yes. You'll get an order confirmation, a note when your frame is on the bench, and tracking as soon as it ships. For custom sizes, I check your measurements before I cut and email you if anything looks off.
Installing
What comes with a canvas frame?
Steel mounting screws for attaching your canvas, with D-rings and picture wire already installed. Watch the install video.
How do the ledge shelves mount?
Each shelf has screw holes spaced 16" apart, and I include wooden plugs to cover them. Screws and anchors aren't included, because the right hardware depends on your wall. Email me and I'll recommend what to use.
How does the frame light work?
The wireless frame light is made by Situ Lighting. It rests on top of your frame, with no cords and no drilling. When the battery runs low, lift it off and plug it in.
Returns and guarantee
What if I'm not happy with it?
Send it back and I'll refund it in full, for any reason, stock size or custom. I'll email you a prepaid label, and your refund goes out as soon as the box shows movement in tracking. Read the full guarantee.
What if it arrives damaged?
I'll replace it. Email me with your order number. A photo helps but isn't required.
Can I cancel my order?
Yes. Email me before it ships and I'll cancel and refund it the same day. If it's already on the bench, I'll tell you where it is in the build and we'll work out the right thing together.
Gift cards
How do gift cards work?
The Atlas Gift Card is delivered by email, instantly or on the date you choose. It never expires and can be used on any frame, shelf, or custom order.