Large Picture Frames Frame Your Biggest Artwork
Specialists in large picture frames — from oversized artwork to truly giant pieces up to 4.5 metres. Custom made with museum grade quality and a 5 year UK guarantee. Contact us today to start your project.
Features
Splines
Up to 5 splines can be used on your frame, for 2 purposes. Either to make a stronger frame for large works (where it's often painted over), or for the style and character it adds to your frame. In the latter case, contrasting woods can be used to enhance the effect.
Extra Large?
We specialise in oversized, meaning your box frame can be customised to any length. At this scale, a box frame becomes a focal point — particularly effective in open-plan living spaces, stairwells, and commercial interiors.
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Brushed
A lovely finish on either brass or aluminium, giving the effect of a unidirectional brushed texture. This is often paired with a black internal or polished face on tray frames.
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Patina
A chemical finish added to the metal to cause a reaction which creates a dark, rough finish. Increasingly popular for contemporary and industrial-style frames.
“I started using Harten Frameworks six years ago. These guys are the best framers in the UK, they focus on my needs and always deliver. ”
Lincoln TownleyArtist
Description
How Big is a “Large” Picture Frame?
Anything over A0 (841 x 1189mm) is usually an oversized frame. These items often require special planning, materials and construction for big picture frames.
Large picture frames are custom-built frames designed for artwork and prints exceeding standard sizes, typically starting from A1 (594 x 841mm) and extending up to 4.5 metres. They require specialist construction techniques including reinforced joints, thicker acrylic glazing, and subframes for structural support to ensure long-term stability and safe wall mounting.
We regularly work with pieces several meters in height and width and have developed a specialty in oversize frames since moving to our new workshop.
Our framers take particular pride in the unique challenges and manufacturing considerations & practice, in constructing these enclosures to conservation standard. The materials such as glass, acrylic, boards & profiles, all need stocking at these larger than usual size. Even the machinery needed is of a specialist nature for extra large picture framing.
The results are always spectacular. The increased weights of these frame materials and their inherent fragility, mean that the construction techniques have to be adapted and engineered for strength. The addition of a support frame is needed, and often cross bracing. Some of the largest works framed by us have been art canvases, with a glazed size of 2630 x 1765mm.
Pricing for oversized frames depends on the size, frame profile, finish, glazing type, and whether a subframe or special hanging solution is required. Every project is different at this scale, so we provide free, detailed quotes. Get in touch with the dimensions of your artwork and we can advise on the best approach.
Large Picture Frame Sizes
Large picture frames fall into three broad size categories, each with different construction and material requirements:
Large: A1 to A0 (594 x 841mm to 841 x 1189mm) — suitable for most large prints and photographs. Standard construction with quality glazing options.
Extra large: A0+ to 2 metres — requires reinforced construction and acrylic glazing for safety. Spline joints and deeper profiles are used at this scale.
Oversized: 2 to 4.5 metres — requires subframe support, specialist hanging hardware, and often professional installation. These frames are engineered structures as much as they are picture frames.
Whatever the size of your project, we can advise on the right combination of materials and construction methods. We have been building large picture frames for over 50 years and can keep your artwork safe and beautifully presented at any scale.
Our oversized framing is popular with artists working at scale, galleries mounting exhibition pieces, and interior designers specifying statement artwork.
Whether you need giant picture frames for a gallery exhibition, huge picture frames for a commercial lobby, or big picture frames for a statement wall at home, we build every frame to your exact dimensions. From 1 metre to 4.5 metres, no project is too large.
Let's Get Started
Ready to Start Your Project?
Tell us about your artwork and we will provide a free, no-obligation quote. Most projects are completed within 2-4 weeks.
5 Year Guarantee · Museum Grade Quality · Free Consultation
Craftsmanship
We Are Set Up To Manage Oversized Work
From our workshops to our staff, we are proficient at completing huge framing, whilst keeping our meticulous standards.
Over 50 Years of Experience
Five decades of picture framing and display work, across every technique from conservation mounting to welded steel fabrication.
The framing of my piece has really made a statement in our new home, for a price that was unrivalled by any local competitors.
Finishes
Finishes & Materials
Sometimes we have to change materials or add extra supports for large picture frames. We can talk you though your options in your initial consultation.
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Burn Back
Gives modern rustic aesthetic with deep texture and ageing effects. The process involves carefully burning the wood. Ash or obeche wood has the best grain effect for this technique.
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Corten
This unique finish is created though a careful chemical reaction on wood and metal. The result is a natural rust which is then sealed with clear lacquer to protect it.
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Gesso
A traditional method of preparing a frame surface for paint, gilding or custom finishes. Can be applied to wood, metal and even paper mounts. The craftsmanship and secret recipes involved create a stunning finish that speaks for itself.
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Gilding
After laying a gesso base, gilding can be applied using leafs of many metals, including gold, silver, bronze, copper & aluminium. This gives you a luxury finish with a huge range of custom styles including patination, scuffing, rub through and burnishing.
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Hand Painted
Your profile can be expertly painted in any colour required to match your artwork or environment. This cost-effective finish can be further enhanced with techniques such as stippling, veiling, patination and distressing.
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Sprayed
Spraying is our most popular finish, with benefits including invisible frame corner joins, a smooth high quality effect and a choice of colours and glosses. It gives contemporary museum quality to any artwork.
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Staining
A versatile option that can be used to enhance grain, add colouring and even out natural surfaces. This is best used on natural woods.
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Acrylic Options
Acrylic is naturally 70% UV resistant, 50% lighter than glass and incredibly tough to break, making it an ideal replacement to glass if preferred. Higher grade acrylic options include full UV resistance, anti-static or anti-reflective coatings.
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Glass Options
We offer a UV resistant glass as standard on our frames, with higher grade options to choose from including ‘Gallery Glass’ which has an anti-reflective property to make your artwork sing or glazing with anti-scratch coatings.
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Board Qualities
You can choose from 3 qualities of mount board. 'Everyday' boards, which come in many colours and are the most cost effective. 'Conservation' boards which are acid-free and most commonly used. Then 'Museum' boards, which are the best quality and 100% cotton fibre.
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Hand Finished Woods
Our team handcraft our wooden frames in house from a range of species including beech, oak, walnut, rock maple, ash, cherry and pine, guaranteeing a high quality finish every time.
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Hand Finished Metals
We’ve developed our metalwork extensively recently, with our team now welding both custom aluminium and brass frames to suit a number of different shapes and styles.
Speak to a Specialist
Discuss Your Project With Our Team
Our museum grade specialists will help you choose the right materials, finishes and construction for your artwork. Over 50 years of combined experience.
5 Year Guarantee · Museum Grade Quality · Free Consultation
Examples
Examples Of Frames For Large Pictures
Browse images from past projects, including many oversized frame ideas to give inspiration for your next project.
“The only museum quality framers we’ve found outside London. ”
Chris BrooksGallery Owner
Benefits
Why Use Us For Very Large Picture Framing?
Why should you work with us for your oversized framing project?
5 Year Guarantee
Our bespoke frames and finishes are fully guaranteed for 5 years.
Any Size
We work with artwork on any scale, customising your frame to fit perfectly.
Consult With An Expert
Talk with one of our framing experts for free, to receive advice on construction, colour and various product options.
Cutting Edge Manufacturing
Your frame will be crafted using the latest machinery, such as CAD mount cutters and custom spray booths.
Framing Since 1974
Your frame will benefit from craftsmanship and research built over 50 years.
Full Insurance Coverage
Your artwork is fully insured while it's with us at the workshop.
Made In The UK
All of our frames are hand crafted by the team in our Cheshire based workshop.
Range Of Finishes
With a variety of finishes on wood and metal, you’re guaranteed to get the look you are aiming for.
Security Fixings
We can supply special fixings to stop people taking the frame off your walls
Variety Of Delivery Options
We offer delivery through artwork couriers or we can personally deliver your finished pieces.
Harten Frameworks have made beautiful frames for me for over 20 years.
Clients
Some Clients Who've Used Us For Large Picture Frames (UK & Worldwide)
“I started using Harten Frameworks six years ago. These guys are the best framers in the UK, they focus on my needs and always deliver. ”
Lincoln TownleyArtist
Suitable For
What types of artwork can go in an oversized frame?
Oversized artworks usually go into box frames, which is highlighted in the table below.
| Acrylic | Metal & Wood Frames | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Artwork | Box | Panel | Box | Simple | Stretcher | Tray |
| 3D Object | ||||||
| Board | ||||||
| Canvas | ||||||
| Digital File | ||||||
| Mirror | ||||||
| Paper | ||||||
| Textile | ||||||
Let's Get Started
Ready to Start Your Project?
Tell us about your artwork and we will provide a free, no-obligation quote. Most projects are completed within 2-4 weeks.
5 Year Guarantee · Museum Grade Quality · Free Consultation
Construction
How Are Large Picture Frames Made?
Most of the processes we use for oversized picture framing is similar to standard, but there is in depth knowledge of materials and processes that needs to be used to ensure a solid structure for the frame.
Profile
To achieve the required strength and account for the thicker glazing (discussed below) you’ll generally need a much deeper profile to house all the elements of the frame.
In addition a strong wood is needed to ensure the big frame remains strong over the life of the frame.
To add extra rigidity we can also add spline joints to the corners of the frame. This is much stronger than the usual method of joining frames, which uses special framing pins and wood glue.
Splines involve creating interlocking sections of wood to add friction and a difference in grain directions. The splines can be made into a feature of the frame by using different woods or finishes to create contrast and add interest to this construction element.
If extra strength in the profile is required we can add steel angle brackets to the internal corners of the frame. We first create a routed out groove so the internal components (glass, mount, artwork etc) all site flush against the frame internal. Then add the angle bracket, screwed to the frame.
Glazing
With oversized frames you’ll need thicker glazing. We use 4-6mm for large frames, depending on the exact sizes involved.
Glass is not recommended as to get the strength required at that size you need very thick glass. This makes the frame weight so much it can take 3 people just to lift it, in addition to special hanging techniques.
So acrylic is the usual method for glazing oversized frames.
Hanging
String or wire will not have to strength to hold an oversized frame. There are several valid options:
Strap Hangers
2 Metal fixings, each using multiple screws are attached to the back of the oversized frame. 2 corresponding hooks are screwed into the wall, and the frame is hung on these.
Link Hangers / Museum Hangers
2 brackets, one on frame – 1 on wall. Joined with metal bone. Up to 100kg
Split Batten
Best for completely flat walls. Gives seamless, flush visual.
Subframe
Subframes are essential for oversized work. They provide much of the structural stability, particularly if the main profile is thin.
There will likely be additional support struts to further maintain the rectangle shape of the sub frame. Up to 2 horizontal and 2 vertical support struts are used. These are of course behind the frame and never seen when the art is displayed.
Workshop Technology
To produce very large picture frames takes some large machinery. You can read more about the workshop on our Company page. Here are some highlights:
62 inch HP Giclée printer
1.5m laminator
1.7m Hotpress
Special workshop setup for large framing
Professional spray booth for finishing large frames
The framing of my piece has really made a statement in our new home, for a price that was unrivalled by any local competitors.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about large and oversized picture frames
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The largest frame we have completed is 4.5 metres by 3.5 metres. Our workshop is specifically set up for oversized framing with specialist machinery, a professional spray booth, and large-format equipment. If you have a very large piece, contact us to discuss — we are comfortable working at virtually any scale.
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Pricing for oversized frames depends on the size, frame profile, finish, glazing type, and whether a subframe is needed. Every oversized project is unique, so we provide free, detailed quotes tailored to your specific artwork. Get in touch with the dimensions and we can advise. As a guide, oversized framing starts from around £500, though final pricing depends on your specific requirements.
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Yes. We have completed frames up to 4.5 metres by 3.5 metres. We use thicker acrylic glazing (4-6mm), spline-jointed corners, and reinforced subframes to ensure structural integrity at these sizes.
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Acrylic is the standard choice for large frames. Glass becomes too heavy and fragile at larger sizes. We use 4-6mm acrylic depending on the frame dimensions, with options for anti-reflective and UV-protective grades including museum-grade Optium acrylic.
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We build the hanging solution into the frame. Options include strap hangers (metal fixings with wall hooks), link/museum hangers (rated up to 100kg), or split battens (for a flush, seamless look on flat walls). We can advise on the best method for your frame and wall type.
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Yes. We always use acrylic glazing (not glass) for shipped frames to prevent breakage. We can arrange professional courier delivery for oversized frames within the UK. For very large or valuable pieces, we also offer installation services.
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A large picture frame is generally any frame exceeding A1 size (594 x 841mm). At this scale, standard framing techniques are no longer sufficient — the frame needs reinforced corner joints, thicker acrylic glazing instead of glass, and often a subframe for structural support. We build large picture frames up to 4.5 metres using specialist construction methods developed over 50 years of experience.
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Large picture frames are too heavy for standard string or wire hanging. We use professional methods including French cleats (split battens) for a flush wall finish, strap hangers with multiple screw fixings, or museum-grade link hangers rated up to 100kg. The wall itself needs to be assessed for load-bearing capacity, and we can advise on fixings and wall preparation. For very large or heavy frames, we offer a professional installation service.
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Most UK framers supply frames up to around 1.2 metres. Specialist framers work up to 2.7 metres. We regularly build frames up to 4.5 metres, making us one of the largest bespoke picture frame manufacturers in the UK. At this scale, every frame is an engineered structure with reinforced joints, subframes, and acrylic glazing.
Speak to a Specialist
Discuss Your Project With Our Team
Our museum grade specialists will help you choose the right materials, finishes and construction for your artwork. Over 50 years of combined experience.
5 Year Guarantee · Museum Grade Quality · Free Consultation
Related Pages
Artists Surfaces
Give your art start-points the best chance of success with quality artists surfaces
Surface Finishes
Surface finishes are the final piece for making your ideal frame
Canvas
Custom tray frames, floating frames and canvas stretcher frames. Handmade to your exact canvas size from around £250. 5 year guarantee. Free quote.
Mirrors
Handmade custom mirror frames in any size, finish or mirror glass type. Bespoke framed mirrors from around £400 with a 5 year guarantee. Free consultation.
Box Frames
Handmade box frames for any item, any size, any depth. Deep box frames, large display frames & shadow boxes crafted in the UK. 5 year guarantee. Free quote.
Acrylic Panels
Wall mounted perspex frames bring a clean, modern visual to any space. Your own image can be printed & acrylic framing comes with a 5 year guarantee.
Acrylic Boxes
Custom perspex box frames and acrylic shadow boxes made to any size. Display and protect 3D objects, art and memorabilia. From around £250. Free quote.
Oversized
Large picture frames custom built up to 4.5 metres. Reinforced construction, acrylic glazing, and subframe support. Museum grade quality with a 5 year guarantee.
Objects
Custom framing for 3D objects — football shirts, medals, wedding dresses and collectibles. Deep box frames with conservation-grade materials, handmade in Cheshire.
Welded
Custom metal picture frames in welded aluminium, brass and stainless steel. Slim profiles, exceptional strength. From around £500. Handmade in the UK.