Bulk Picture Frame Orders for Wholesale Buyers: A Complete Guide

Bulk picture frame orders, take quite a bit of consideration. When it comes to scaling your business, whether you’re managing a gallery, art store, or corporate gifting program, purchasing frames in bulk can be a game changer. By framing in bulk, you’re not only investing in a streamlined process but also unlocking cost savings and efficiency that can set you apart from the competition. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when ordering bulk frames and how to maximize the benefits for your business.

bulk picture frames for staging

Why Bulk Framing Matters for Wholesale Buyers

Wholesale buyers often have a unique set of needs. Maybe you’re supplying framed artwork for retail, staging real estate properties for sale, or outfitting office spaces, and you’re in need of picture frames to tie it all together. In these situations, framing isn’t just an afterthought; it’s an integral part of the final product. Here’s why bulk picture frame orders are crucial:

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Ordering frames in bulk typically provides volume discounts, reducing your per-frame cost.
  • Consistency: Maintaining a uniform look across a collection or project enhances professional appeal.
  • Efficiency: Streamlining your framing needs can help meet tight deadlines and reduce logistical headaches.
wholesle picture frames for restaurant chains

Assess Your Needs Before Ordering

Before placing a bulk order, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your project requirements. Here are some things to think about:

  • What type of artwork will be framed? Different art pieces require different framing materials and styles. For example, fine art prints may look best on our giclee paper with an ornate picture frame. But, our metal picture frames can hold larger and thicker “framables” like sports jerseys.
  • What is the aesthetic you want to achieve? For cohesive branding or event planning, consider choosing frames that align with your company’s or client’s design theme. 
  • What is your timeline? Consider how quickly you need the frames and if your supplier can deliver in time.

Composite or MDF Picture Frames

Popular amongst our wholesale purchasers, the Wilton is our best-value wood frame style, It has a flat profile face that is 1 ¼” wide. It’s a quality composite wood picture frame, or MDF material, that’s finished with a decorative wood pattern wrap.

MDF Picture Frame
Wilton in Coffee
MDF Picture frame in brown
Wilton in Merlot
MDF Picture frame in black
Wilton in Black

Choosing Frame Styles and Materials

One of the most exciting aspects of bulk picture frame orders is the variety of options available to suit different tastes and purposes. Here are some framing ideas to consider:

  1. Wood Frames: Classic and versatile, our wood picture frames come in a variety of finishes—from natural oak to sleek black. They work well for both contemporary and traditional pieces, making them a great option for retail and gallery spaces.
  2. Metal Frames: If you’re looking for a modern, streamlined aesthetic, metal picture frames are a perfect choice. They are durable and come in a variety of metallic finishes, such as matte black, silver, or gold.
  3. Custom Sizing: Depending on what you’re framing, you most likely need custom frame sizes. Make sure to have accurate measurements for each piece to ensure a perfect fit.
Not sure how to measure your art for framing? We’ll make sure you get the perfect fit by teaching you how to measure your art, read a ruler, and get to know some key frame-related measurements.

Matting Options to Elevate Your Art

Matting can add an elegant touch to framed artwork and also serves a protective function. Here are some options to consider:

  • Single Matting: A clean and classic look that’s budget-friendly and widely appealing.
  • Double Matting: Adds depth and dimension to the artwork, perfect for upscale pieces.
  • No Matting: Ideal for a minimalist look, especially with modern or abstract art.

Matting color choices should complement the art, drawing attention to the work without overpowering it. Neutral tones like white, cream, or black are versatile and work well with any piece.

bulk picture frame orders - gold picture frames

Understanding Cover Options

The material used to cover and protect the artwork, is an important consideration. The two most common choices are glass which offers excellent clarity but can be heavy and fragile, making it less ideal for bulk shipments. And acrylic which is lightweight and shatter-resistant. For wholesale buyers, acrylic is often the preferred option because it’s more durable and easier to handle in large quantities. Here at Frame It Easy, we exclusively use acrylic and offer it in three types:

  • Our Clear Acrylic offers exceptional clarity, half the weight of glass, and superior impact resistance, with 1.5mm thickness and 66% UV protection. Ideal for large frames and high-traffic areas, it’s perfect for homes, museums, and galleries.
  • Our Non-Glare Acrylic provides the same benefits as Clear Acrylic but features a fine matted coating to reduce reflections, making it ideal for spaces with glare issues (not recommended for art with matting as it may appear less crisp).
  • Our Conservation Clear Acrylic delivers 99% UV protection with unmatched clarity and 3mm thickness. It’s perfect for preserving artwork long-term, favored by artists, galleries, and museums.
whole sale picture frames for hotels

Budget Considerations and Cost Savings

Framing bulk orders is a significant investment, so budget planning is understandably top of mind. Here’s how to make the most of your budget:

  • Volume Discounts: Many custom framing companies offer discounts based on the quantity ordered. Be sure to inquire about pricing tiers to get the best deal.
  • Standard Sizes vs. Custom Sizes: Opting for standard frame sizes can reduce costs. If possible, design your art pieces to fit these dimensions.
  • Material Choices: If you’re framing art for a commercial project, consider using more cost-effective materials, for less significant pieces and splurging on higher-end options for focal pieces.
bulk picture frames for retail stores

Logistics and Coordination

Managing a bulk order involves careful planning, especially if you’re dealing with large quantities. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

Storage: Once your frames arrive, ensure you have a proper storage area that’s temperature and humidity-controlled to prevent damage.

Plan Ahead: Bulk orders can take longer to produce, especially if you’re requesting custom frame sizes. Start the ordering process early to avoid delays.

Delivery Options: Make sure your supplier has reliable shipping options, and consider whether they offer delivery tracking and insurance.

Tips for Bulk Picture Frame Orders

  1. Work with a Trusted Supplier: Choose a framing company with experience handling bulk orders. They should offer consistent quality and reliable customer service.
  2. Request Samples: Before committing to a large order, request frame and matboard samples to ensure the materials meet your expectations.
  3. Quality Checks: Inspect a sample of your bulk order upon delivery. Look for any defects in the frames, matting, or glazing and address them immediately with your supplier.

Final Thoughts

Framing bulk orders can seem daunting, but with the right information, it becomes a seamless part of your business operations. Simplify your large-scale framing projects with Frame It Easy. We make wholesale framing easy and efficient. We offer custom sizing and a large option of frames. Our team will handle the details, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. With Frame It Easy, you get top-notch service and precision craftsmanship—with the benefits of cost savings.

Request your wholesale picture frame quote today!

A Complete Guide To Bulk Picture Frame Orders

Ready to get creative?

Whether you have a piece of art ready to frame, or you have something for us to print, we've got you covered. Our online custom picture framing perfectly fits not only your art, but your style and budget, too! Use our custom frame designer to create a frame, or browse our suggested frame designs. Happy designing!