How soon will I receive my order?
All Happenstance frames are within two weeks. Please add a note with your order if you have a specific deadline.
What frame size do I need?
Our frame sizes are in either cm/mm or inches. The frame size is the measurements inside the frame (not the outer edges). Frame size is same as glass size, or mountboard size, or backing board size. If you need the frame to be directly around the artwork, order a frame of the same size as the artwork. If you are float mounting or using a mat, the frame size should include that.
For stretched canvases there is usually a standard gap of 5mm between a canvas and a tray frame. Please make sure to add that to your frame size. For example, if your canvas is 30x40cm, order a 31x41cm tray frame.
What frame type should I choose?
For any artwork made on a thin material (paper, thin card etc.) use a box frame – this way the glass will not touch the artwork which is in accordance with conservation requirements. If the artwork is slightly thicker (3-5mm board), you can still use a box frame. Just let us know about the artwork thickness in a note with your order, so that we use the right fittings to fit the artwork.
For a stretched canvas order a tray frame. This type frame will be without glass or backing. See above how to work out the right size for this type of frame.
Are Happenstance frames made of real wood?
Yes. We only use real wood to make Happenstance frames. Most of our materials are sustainably sourced as well.
Wood types include oak, ash, obeche etc.
What size frame do I need if I am float mounting the artwork?
If you choose to float mount your artwork, remember to check that the frame size is right. For example, if your artwork is 40x50cm and you are adding 3cm all around, the frame size will be 46x56cm. You can request a complimentary foam board in a note with your order.
What size frame do I need if I’m using a mat (cut out window mount)?
Remeber to add your mat width, when you order a frame. For example, if your mat is 5cm wide and the artwork is 30x40cm, the frame size you need is 40x50cm. You can request a complimentary mat in a note with your order (include the measurements of the cut out window you need).
What type of glazing should I choose?
We offer 3 types of glazing. All are standard 2mm thick. Regular framing glass is most commonly used. Acrylic/Perspex is non-breaking and lighter in weight, so it is used on bigger size frames as well as small frames which are to be shipped internationally. UV Art glass (also known as museum glass) offers additional protection against light, so is recommended for valuable artworks. It has a lower reflection than usual glass. And it is also virtually invisible and allows you to see the artwork in greater detail.
What colour inner slip should I choose?
An inner slip is also called a fillet or spacer. It is the strip that keeps glass away from the artwork and makes it a box frame. Our standard inner slip is 12mm deep. Most box frames work best with a white slip. The white slip we use is a ‘warm’ and ‘soft’ shade of white colour. Ivory slip is much darker. It looks creamy, or beige.
You can request ‘no slip’ if you are using a window mount / mat.
Still need help? Contact us!