Where to Get Custom Framing in Myrtle Beach

Local frame shops and galleries that do custom work

Myrtle Beach has several established frame shops where you can bring artwork, posters, photographs, or memorabilia and have it professionally framed. The Framery on North Kings Highway offers custom framing with mat cutting, glass selection, and backing options. Frame It in the Market Common area handles everything from fine art to sports jerseys and shadowboxes. Both shops keep samples of moulding styles on hand so you can see how different frames will look with your piece before ordering.

Gallery spaces like Brookgreen Museum and smaller independent galleries along the Barefoot Landing boardwalk sometimes offer framing services or can recommend local framers they work with regularly. If you have a valuable or unusual piece—a large canvas, a textile, or something that needs conservation-grade materials—asking at a gallery first can connect you with specialists who handle high-end work.

Key Takeaways

• The Framery and Frame It are the two main custom framing shops in Myrtle Beach, both located on or near major commercial roads.
• Turnaround time for custom framing typically ranges from two to four weeks, depending on the complexity and whether materials need to be ordered.
• Bring your piece and measurements when you visit, and ask to see moulding samples and mat options before committing to a design.
• Gallery staff and museum contacts can recommend framers for high-value or conservation-sensitive work that requires specialized handling.

What to expect during the framing process

When you bring a piece in, the framer will measure it, discuss the look you want, and show you moulding options—wood, metal, or composite materials in various finishes. You'll choose mat colour and style (single mat, double mat, or no mat), glass type (standard, UV-protective, or non-glare), and backing. The framer will then cut the mat, assemble the frame, and secure your piece inside using archival-safe methods that won't damage it.

Most shops will give you a quote before starting work. Prices vary based on frame size, moulding choice, and mat complexity. A simple 8-by-10 print in a basic wood frame might cost $40 to $80, while a larger piece with multiple mats and premium moulding can run $150 to $300 or more. Ask whether the shop offers rush service if you need the work done faster than their standard timeline.

Framing for different types of items

Standard artwork and prints are straightforward, but framers also handle sports memorabilia (jerseys, signed photos, trading cards), textiles (quilts, embroidery, vintage fabrics), three-dimensional objects (medals, small sculptures), and documents (diplomas, certificates, historical papers). Each type may require different mounting techniques—a jersey might be sewn to the backing, while a delicate textile needs acid-free materials and UV glass to prevent fading.

If you have something unusual or fragile, describe it when you call or visit. The framer can tell you whether they can handle it or recommend a specialist. Shadowboxes and deep frames work well for bulky items like medals or small collectibles. Floating frames (where the piece appears to float inside the frame) are popular for textiles and modern art.

DIY framing alternatives

If you want to frame something yourself, big-box retailers like Walmart and Target in the Myrtle Beach area carry basic pre-made frames in standard sizes (5-by-7, 8-by-10, 11-by-14). These frames come with glass, backing, and hanging hardware already assembled. You simply insert your piece and close the back. This option works for posters, prints, and photos that fit the standard dimensions.

Craft stores like Michaels (located in several Myrtle Beach shopping centers) sell individual frame components—moulding, mat board, glass, and backing—so you can assemble a custom frame yourself if you have basic tools and patience. They also offer mat-cutting services if you want to cut your own mat but need precision. Online retailers ship frames and framing supplies to Myrtle Beach as well, though you lose the ability to see samples in person.

Pricing and timeline

Custom framing costs depend on frame size, materials, and complexity. A small frame (5-by-7 or smaller) with a basic wood moulding and single mat typically runs $30 to $60. Medium frames (8-by-10 to 11-by-14) range from $50 to $150. Large frames (16-by-20 and up) or those with premium moulding, multiple mats, or specialty glass can cost $150 to $400 or more. Shadowboxes and frames for three-dimensional objects tend to be on the higher end because they require more labour and materials.

Most shops complete standard orders in two to four weeks. Rush service (one to two weeks) may be available for an additional fee. Seasonal demand—particularly around the holidays—can extend timelines, so ask when you order. Some framers offer a discount if you bring multiple pieces at once.

Where to find framers near you

Search online for "custom framing Myrtle Beach" or "frame shop near me" to find current locations and hours. Google Maps will show you which shops are closest to your hotel or home, their phone numbers, and customer reviews. Call ahead to confirm they're open and to ask whether they can handle your specific piece—some shops specialize in art and prints, while others focus on sports memorabilia or shadowboxes.

If you're staying in a specific area of Myrtle Beach (North Myrtle Beach, Barefoot Landing, Market Common, or downtown), ask your hotel concierge or a local business for a recommendation. Word-of-mouth referrals often lead to framers who do careful work and stand behind their finished pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does custom framing take?

Most shops complete standard orders in two to four weeks. Rush service can shorten this to one to two weeks, usually for an extra fee. Call the shop when you order to confirm their current timeline, especially during busy seasons.

Can a framer fix a damaged frame or re-frame something old?

Yes. Framers can remove a piece from an old frame, clean it if needed, and re-frame it with new materials. This is common for inherited artwork or pieces that have faded or deteriorated. Bring the item in so the framer can assess what needs to be done.

What's the difference between UV glass and regular glass?

UV glass filters ultraviolet light, which slows fading of artwork, photographs, and textiles over time. Regular glass offers no UV protection. UV glass costs more but is worth it for valuable pieces or anything you want to preserve long-term, especially in a sunny room.

Do I need to frame something if I just want to hang it on the wall?

No. Posters and prints can be hung with poster hangers, clips, or adhesive strips. Framing protects the piece from dust and damage, makes it look finished, and is necessary if you want to preserve something valuable or delicate. For casual decoration, framing is optional.

Can framers work with very large pieces or unusual shapes?

Many can, but it depends on the shop's equipment and experience. Call ahead and describe the size and shape. Some framers have limitations on how large a piece they can handle. Specialty framers or conservation experts may be needed for very large or fragile items.