National Custom Framing Day

History of National Custom Framing Day

Vincent van Gogh once said, “A picture without a frame is like a soul without a body.” With time, people began to understand the true meaning of this phrase since a frame is like the outer covering of a photo, protecting it. And it appears the company Roma Moulding has the same belief as they were the ones who created the day in July 2021. The Italian firm is also responsible for developing exquisite eco-conscious frames for photographs and pictures.

While the frames we see now are modem and cutting edge, there was a time when they were simply due to a lack of technology. For instance, in the 2nd century B.C., frames existed in the form of borders created around Etruscan cave paintings. In the Middle Ages, the trend shifted, and wood was used to frame exquisite artworks that needed to be displayed. Those artists paid extra attention to beautifying them by adding carvings and gold leaves to the wood.

The trend of frames as an art piece further boomed in the 14th and 15th centuries, when wealthy nobles started using them to accentuate the beauty of the painting within them. By 1515, magnificent frames started being designed by furniture builders. While these handcrafted ones were unique and valuable, the trend slowly diminished in the 19th century, when companies started producing them on a large scale.

National Custom Framing Day timeline

50 A.D. — 70 A.D.

In the Pyramid

A wooden frame with a portrait is found in Egypt.

1423

The Masterpiece

‘Adoration of the Magi’ becomes the first altarpiece made with a panel and frame.

11th Century

Carve Away

Modern carved wooden frames are developed.

19th Century

The Decline

Handcrafted frame production falls.

National Custom Framing Day FAQs

When is National Custom Framing Day?

National Custom Framing Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, September 15, offering a perfect mid-week opportunity to appreciate the art of preservation and display.

How many items are custom framed each year?

While exact figures for custom framing can vary, the global art and collectibles market, a significant driver of framing, is valued in the tens of billions of dollars annually, indicating a robust demand for professional presentation and preservation.

What types of items are most commonly custom framed?

Beyond traditional photographs and art prints, custom framing is popular for preserving diplomas, sports jerseys, antique textiles, concert tickets, and even three-dimensional objects like medals or baby shoes.

What is the difference between custom and ready-made frames?

Custom frames are built to exact specifications for a specific item, allowing for precise sizing, material choices, and aesthetic matching, ensuring optimal protection and display.

National Custom Framing Day Activities

Design a frame

To celebrate the day, channel the artist in you and try to design a frame of your own. You don’t even have to spend a lot — just gather some seashells and glitter for your art piece.

Buy a frame

Well, millions of frames are available on the market. So why not use this day to make a memorable purchase? You can also buy a frame for a loved one as a gift.

Host a workshop

On this day, you can rope in some artists that can design frames and share the knowledge with people of all ages through a fun workshop. That is the best way to spread some talent.

5 Interesting Facts About Frames

Frames have no copyright

This is why the same design is seen in many places.

The largest picture frames collection

Lara Khoury from the U.A.E. has collected 2,214 empty frames.

The world's largest ‘photo frame’

It is 492 feet x 305 feet and is located in Dubai.

Frames in Renaissance Italy

During that time, frames were considered works of art.

American and European frame differences

Both have different iconography.

Why We Love National Custom Framing Day

It tells us about the importance of frames

We love the day because it emphasizes how important frames are for works of art. They not only make paintings and photos more beautiful but also protect them from wear and tear.

It narrates the history

The day goes back into the history of frames, tells us why they are celebrated, and where they emerged from. It took years for them to become modern and affordable.

It is educational

The day is educational since it provides the youngsters with the history of frames and the different artists who used decorative frames to spice up their photos or paintings.