Hobby Lobby vs Michaels Framing: Which Is Better for You?
Looking to frame a cherished memory or artwork? Choosing the right framing service can make all the difference, and two popular options often come to mind: Hobby Lobby and Michaels. Both offer a variety of framing services, but which one is the best fit for your needs and budget?
This comparison dives deep into the world of Hobby Lobby vs Michaels framing, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between. We’ll explore their pricing, frame selection, and the overall customer experience to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to discover which store offers the best value and quality for your framing projects.
Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or a first-time framer, understanding the nuances of Hobby Lobby and Michaels framing is crucial. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each, helping you navigate the options and choose the perfect framing solution. Let’s find out which one reigns supreme!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Hobby Lobby | Michaels Framing |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Selection | Wide Variety | Wide Variety |
| Matting Options | Extensive | Extensive |
| Glass/Acrylic Options | Standard & Specialty | Standard & Specialty |
| Custom Framing Services | Yes | Yes |
| Ready-Made Frames | Yes | Yes |
| Frame Materials | Wood, Metal, Composite | Wood, Metal, Composite |
| Design Assistance | Available | Available |
| Online Ordering | Limited | Yes |
| In-Store Workshops | Sometimes | Often |
| Artwork Mounting | Yes | Yes |
| Frame Styles | Traditional & Modern | Traditional & Modern |
| Turnaround Time | Variable | Variable |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Price
- Hobby Lobby: Hobby Lobby often has sales and promotions, including discounts on framing. However, the initial price might be higher without a discount. The framing prices can vary depending on the materials chosen.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels also has frequent sales and coupons, often offering competitive pricing. They sometimes have more structured sales events. Pricing is dependent on material selection.
- Winner: Tie
Material Selection
- Hobby Lobby: Hobby Lobby offers a wide variety of frame styles, matting options, and glass choices. The selection is generally good, but the quality can vary depending on the price point.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels provides a broad assortment of frames, matboards, and glazing. They also carry a range of materials with varying quality levels, offering options for different budgets and aesthetic preferences.
- Winner: Tie
Customization Options
- Hobby Lobby: Hobby Lobby allows for custom framing sizes and designs, giving customers flexibility. The extent of customization might depend on the specific store and available resources.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels excels in offering extensive custom framing possibilities, including unusual sizes, shapes, and complex designs. They have a reputation for accommodating unique requests.
- Winner: Michaels
Quality of Materials
- Hobby Lobby: The quality of Hobby Lobby’s framing materials can range widely. While they offer premium options, some of their lower-priced frames might use less durable materials.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels generally offers a wider selection of higher-quality materials, although the pricing reflects this. They often carry more archival-quality options for important pieces.
- Winner: Michaels
Turnaround Time
- Hobby Lobby: The turnaround time for custom framing at Hobby Lobby can vary based on the complexity of the project and current workload, typically taking a few weeks.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels often has similar turnaround times to Hobby Lobby, which can be a few weeks. The timing can fluctuate based on the volume of orders.
- Winner: Tie
Expertise & Customer Service
- Hobby Lobby: The level of framing expertise and customer service at Hobby Lobby can vary by location. Some stores have experienced framers, while others may have less specialized staff.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels usually has trained framing specialists who offer design advice and assistance. The consistency in expertise can be better due to more standardized training.
- Winner: Michaels
Online Ordering & Convenience
- Hobby Lobby: Hobby Lobby’s online framing services may be limited compared to in-store options. The convenience of online ordering might not be as robust.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels offers online framing options, including tools for designing and ordering custom frames. This adds a layer of convenience for customers.
- Winner: Michaels
Sales & Promotions Frequency
- Hobby Lobby: Hobby Lobby is known for its frequent sales and promotions, which can significantly reduce the cost of framing, providing great value for customers.
- Michaels Framing: Michaels also has frequent sales, often with coupons and discounts, making it a competitive option for bargain hunters.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Frame Selection | Tie |
| Custom Framing Services | Tie |
| Ready-Made Frames | Tie |
| Online Ordering | Michaels Framing |
| In-Store Workshops | Michaels Framing |
| Sales & Discounts | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Custom Framing: Both offer custom framing services, allowing customers to create personalized frames for their artwork and photos. This includes selecting frame styles, matting, and glass/acrylic options.
- Ready-Made Frames: Both stores provide a selection of ready-made frames in various sizes and styles, catering to customers seeking immediate framing solutions. These are often more affordable than custom options.
- Frame Materials: Both offer frames made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and composite options, to suit different aesthetic preferences and budgets.
- Design Assistance: Both stores typically offer design assistance, helping customers choose the best frame, mat, and glazing options to complement their artwork or photos.
- Matting Options: Both stores provide a diverse range of matting options, including different colors, textures, and thicknesses, to enhance the visual appeal of framed pieces.
- Glass/acrylic Options: Both offer a selection of glass and acrylic options for frame glazing, including standard glass, non-glare glass, and UV-protective acrylic, depending on customer needs.
Hobby Lobby Vs Michaels Framing Buying Guide
Price Comparison
Both Hobby Lobby and Michaels offer framing services at varying price points. Hobby Lobby often presents itself as a value-driven option, frequently running sales and promotions on framing materials and services. Michaels, on the other hand, might have a slightly higher initial cost, but their frequent coupons and rewards programs can significantly reduce the overall expense. Consider the size and complexity of your project, as well as any ongoing discounts, when comparing prices. Be sure to factor in the cost of materials, labor, and any additional services like matting or glass.
Frame Selection
The variety of frames available at each store is a key consideration. Hobby Lobby boasts a vast selection of frames, spanning numerous styles, materials, and price ranges. They often feature a more rustic and farmhouse-inspired aesthetic, which caters to specific tastes. Michaels offers a similarly extensive range, with a broader selection of contemporary and classic designs. They generally have a wider variety of frame materials including wood, metal, and composite options, giving customers more choices to match their artwork.
Matting Options
Matting is a crucial element in framing, enhancing the visual appeal and protecting your artwork. Hobby Lobby provides a range of matting options, including various colors, textures, and thicknesses. They typically have a good selection of standard mat sizes, and custom matting is also available. Michaels offers a similarly diverse array of matting choices, often with a greater emphasis on archival-quality materials. Their matting selection could be considered more professional, which is important for preserving the artwork’s integrity over time, especially for valuable pieces.
Glass and Glazing Choices
The type of glass or glazing you choose impacts both the aesthetics and protection of your framed piece. Hobby Lobby offers several glass options, including standard, non-glare, and UV-protective glass. The UV-protective glass is essential for preventing fading. Michaels provides a similar selection, but often features a wider range of specialty glass options, such as museum-quality glass that minimizes reflections and offers superior UV protection. Consider the artwork’s value and the lighting conditions in which it will be displayed when selecting glass.
Turnaround Time
The time it takes to complete your framing project is a practical consideration. Hobby Lobby often provides relatively quick turnaround times, especially for standard framing jobs. Michaels’ turnaround times can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the store’s workload. It’s advisable to inquire about the estimated completion time when placing your order, especially if you have a deadline. Rush services might be available at both stores, but may incur additional fees. Consider giving yourself ample time for the project.
Customer Service and Expertise
The level of customer service and the expertise of the framing staff can significantly impact your experience. Hobby Lobby employees are generally helpful and knowledgeable, offering guidance on frame selection and design. Michaels typically has a team of experienced framers who can provide professional advice and assistance with complex projects. Both stores offer in-store consultations to help you choose the best framing options for your artwork. The expertise of the staff can ensure your piece is framed to perfection.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Hobby Lobby If…
- You prioritize a vast selection of frames and matting options.
- You enjoy browsing a wide range of styles, from traditional to modern.
- You are looking for potential sales and discounts on framing materials.
- You value a diverse inventory of home decor and craft supplies beyond framing.
Buy Michaels Framing If…
- You prefer the convenience of online ordering and design tools.
- You want to participate in framing workshops and learn new techniques.
- You are a rewards program member and want to earn points.
- You need a location with a more frequent schedule of sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between standard and archival matting?
Standard matting uses less expensive, less durable materials that are not acid-free. Archival matting uses acid-free and lignin-free materials, which are designed to protect artwork from discoloration and damage over time. Archival matting is essential for preserving valuable or sentimental pieces, as it prevents the mat from deteriorating and harming the artwork. The difference lies in the longevity and preservation capabilities.
Does either store offer custom framing services?
Yes, both Hobby Lobby and Michaels provide custom framing services. This means you can choose specific frame styles, sizes, mats, and glass to perfectly fit your artwork. The stores’ framing specialists can help you design a frame that meets your exact needs and specifications, ensuring a professional and personalized result. This service is ideal for unique or non-standard sized pieces.
What types of artwork can be framed at these stores?
Both Hobby Lobby and Michaels can frame a wide variety of artwork, including paintings, photographs, prints, posters, and even three-dimensional objects. They can handle various sizes and materials, offering options suitable for both personal and professional framing needs. The experienced staff can provide advice on the best framing methods for different types of artwork to protect and enhance its presentation.
What are the typical turnaround times for framing projects?
Turnaround times vary depending on the complexity of the project, the store’s workload, and the availability of materials. Generally, standard framing jobs can be completed within a few days to a couple of weeks. Custom framing projects may take longer. It’s best to inquire about the estimated completion time when placing your order, and consider if you need a rush service.
Do they offer any discounts or promotions on framing?
Yes, both stores frequently offer discounts and promotions on framing services. Hobby Lobby often runs sales and coupons. Michaels regularly has coupons, rewards programs, and seasonal promotions to reduce framing costs. It’s worthwhile checking the stores’ websites or in-store signage for current deals before placing your order. These promotions can significantly impact the final price.
What is the best type of glass for protecting artwork?
For optimal protection, consider using UV-protective or museum-quality glass. UV-protective glass blocks harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause fading and damage to artwork. Museum-quality glass offers superior clarity, minimizes reflections, and provides exceptional UV protection, making it ideal for preserving valuable or delicate pieces. Evaluate the value of the artwork and the display conditions when choosing the glass type.
Can I bring in my own frame?
Generally, both Hobby Lobby and Michaels prefer to use their own frames, as it allows them to guarantee the quality and fit of the framing. However, it’s worth checking with your local store, as some locations may offer limited services for reframing existing pieces. The staff can advise whether they can accommodate your request and the associated costs, considering the frame’s condition and compatibility.
Final Verdict
Both Hobby Lobby and Michaels offer excellent framing services, each with its own advantages. Hobby Lobby excels in value and a wide selection of styles, while Michaels provides a more professional approach with a greater focus on archival materials and experienced staff. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of artwork you’re framing.
Winner: Michaels Framing