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Alameda Custom Framing
Category: Shopping Arts & Crafts Framing Framing [Edit]
2445 Santa Clara Ave(between Park Ave & Everett St)
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 522-1514
- Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
33 reviews for Alameda Custom Framing
Review Highlights
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"Tom knows the key to success is to be honest and real." In 19 reviews -
"...cool experience and I can't wait to see the final product." In 4 reviews -
"Had two prints framed at this store." In 3 reviews
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33 reviews in English
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Review from Alexa W.
Alameda, CA
7/4/2011
I was so happy that I found this wonderful local store! I simply adore Tom! He is so sweet and friendly and was very helpful when I had a print that I wanted to have framed for my husband's birthday.
We went through the 'cheap' black frames first, but it just didn't feel right. I asked him for something a bit more fancy and we found a nice white frame that fit perfectly. He offered me a very good price and even stored the framed picture for me for a couple of weeks, so I didn't have to fear for my husband to find the picture before his birthday. Will come back here with all my framing needs! -
Review from Jon W.
CA
5/21/2012
I took four or five pieces to them and the price was alright, but darnit, you're NOT supposed to use glue on the backs of paper art!! I thought everyone knew that, but they don't.
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Review from Kelly C.
Alameda, CA
2/5/2011
Cute talented couple.
I recently treated myself to two really nice art prints. One was a Ryden and I wanted it done right. I thought about he cheap price point of Michaels but opted for local, custom framing with a more personal touch.
It wasn't cheap. I'm not really up on framing costs so I have no idea if this was a good price, normal price whatever. He did cut me a deal by eliminating taxes if I paid in advance, which i did. He also added anti-glare glass which he didn't charge me for. I'm not sure if anti-glare glass is more expensive than regular glass anyway so I'm not sure if it's a good deal.
So why am I giving this 5 stars?
Service and local store support. I'm sure I'd get a cheaper job at a big box place but there's nothing like supporting your local shop. This guy was friendly. Took his time with me (I had two prints and was waffling between frames because I wanted something cheaper) did come down on price of one of the frames, and he had a great eye. He selected the frames and did a good job with matching a frame to the print. -
Review from Pink L.
Alameda, CA
11/26/2011
Had two prints framed at this store. The first was with a plain black frame, noticed they gave me the wrong/cheaper frame than I selected and PAID for. I let it pass even though I paid for a more expensive frame because it turned out nice. Went back a second time (stupid me) this time there was/is a wrinkle in the print, which is noticeable even in the frame. Last straw, can't recommend them. Compared to other local framers, decent price, but go at your own risk.
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Review from Toni M.
1/13/2009
In mid December I saw Julie Z's review of this framing shop and bookmarked it. When I was last in Ashland I bought a couple of photographs I wanted to have framed. I called and learned that they would be moving at the end of the year and w/ one thing and another it took me until today to go over there.
I have been bereft since Amsterdam Art closed on University in Berkeley. Almost everything in our house that has been framed was framed there. It was a wonderfully funky store w/ quirky, artistic young people who offered great help in choosing mats and frames. I went to another framing place since, but didn't connect. Their work was OK, nothing wrong w/ it but it wasn't a place that drew me back.
I found the shop today pretty readily. I walked in and was greeted by Tom. He was friendly and warm, excited about the new shop, which is attractive and well organized. I showed him the first photo, a magnificent owl w/ its wings spread. Because the mats were standard sizes he brought over a couple of ready-made wooden frames, one brown, one black. We agreed the brown was better. He gave me a 20% discount because of their new location, which was quite generous and much appreciated. The next photo was of a pierris in full bloom in the Japanese Garden in Lithia Park. I've admired it for a couple of years and had finally bought it. We used the same frame as the other. He will call me when they're ready and I'll get to take another trip to Alameda. I think I've found my new frame shop. -
Review from H C.
Bay Area
12/11/2009
Tom and Helen have earned every one of their 5-star reviews and more. They've been in the business for 35 years (see for yourself if Tom looks anything close to 72 as he claims to be!). Super friendly and helpful couple - Tom gave us an entire framing package for $100 (including a standard 24x36 frame, matting, tax, etc.). He estimated that it would be done by the next day but actually called later the same day because he had already finished.
The final product was totally impressive and I know we were charged a reasonable price because we shopped around. We will be back! -
Review from Russell V.
Oakland, CA
11/28/2009
The owner(s) of this shop are the sweetest people ever.
I was given a great deal on matting and framing of 4 photos I brought in.
The finished product was perfect and done sooner than expected. I'm on my way there now to have more done!
I wish every business was run like this. -
Review from Alexa F.
Oakland, CA
1/16/2012
I had a large original drawing that had taken me 6 months to make framed here for the east bay open studios that I was taking part in. It cost $480 and was finished in a week. Great I thought fast and reasonable. But unfortunately I noticed there was bubbling happening all over the drawing I took it out if the frame and found that it was impossible to take the drawing off the matte board which they had glued down. I have never heard of someone gluing a delicate original piece of art to a board. It has taking me over an hour with a hair dryer trying to get it off. It has a number of rips and is completely crinkled I probably wont ever be able to sell it. They obviously know nothing about caring for art. I wouldn't trust them with anything original.
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Review from timberly b.
Manhattan, NY
5/11/2011
Affordable place for framing. It is a "mom and pop shop". Tom is an older gentleman, sweet and his prices for custom framing are the cheapest that I have seen in that area. I had 2 of my diplomas framed there. Total was $220 total for 2 diplomas, custom framed with matting. It took about 7 days. They called me when it was done. I printed out all the Yelp reviews of the store and gave it to Tom when I picked up my frames. He was so happy to read all the great reviews about his store. He has a "Yelp" sticker on his door but he told me he does not know how to access it and he's not really familiar with the Internet. So was pleasantly surprised to read all the reviews.
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Review from Kevin W.
9/18/2009
If you live in Alameda - then you probably know how hard it is to find a local shop that is your go to source for mattings, and frames.
I found the Alameda Custom Framing in my searches before but didn't want to have anything done for me. Part of being an artist is also selecting how your art is displayed.
However after months of searching Berkeley, Alameda and such I decided to pop my head in Alameda Custom Framing on my lunch hour.... BOY AM I GLAD I DID!
The owner was very helpful and gave me some great advice on how to frame my artwork, all for a great deal.
I definitely will be back to get some more frames and mattings for my photography I am putting together. -
Review from Shantelle D.
Alameda, CA
2/21/2011
Awesome service + friendly, talented owners + beautiful work = 5 stars.
I recently bought an awkward-sized print (11'' x 14.5'') and in a bout of decorating OCD, decided a perfectly even frame for it was mandatory. I went straight to this spot because it's 5 minutes away from me, and because Yelp told me that the Price Range is "$". When I walked in, Tom was framing an autographed E-40 photograph for nearby La Penca Azul (formerly La Piñata), which I found adorable and badass. I felt a swell of Bay Area pride at the sight of several homegrown gems connected at once. Gotta love local talents.
Admittedly, I'd never had a custom frame job done before, and didn't bother making price comparisons. So when Tom asked me what I was looking for, and what I was looking to spend, I replied "Um... The cheapest frame that will match my apartment? For uh... Under $75??" I was clearly an uninformed customer, and he easily could have taken advantage of me. Instead we sifted through less expensive frames until I picked one that matched my furniture, discussing the intricacies of my name in the process. He asked what color mat I wanted, and at this point I just replied, "I trust you." He quoted $65 if I paid up front, which seemed pricey, but again I had nothing to compare it to. Plus I didn't feel like driving to Oakland or Emeryville, and he was so charming, the place so friendly, that I just followed my gut. And I'm happy I did--I later found out a friend of mine got a similar job done through Aaron Brothers and paid $90! Guess this "$" grade is justified.
He estimated a week to finish, but called only 3 days later. When I showed up after closing time, he let me in anyway. Great service, and great frame job (complete with expertly matched mat) makes for one happy camper. I'll be back with my tapa cloth :) -
Review from Nicholas C.
Alameda, CA
2/10/2009 3 photos
I don't even know where to begin. I'm a Rock Art poster junkie and have 2 Social Distortion limited print posters and wanted them framed and matted nicely like a few others I have. I thought this store closed but they just moved.
Tom was AMAZINGLY helpful. I took both posters in. We started off at about $245 a framing and dwindled it down to $200 for both!!!! He had a couple pre-made frames that fit and significantly reduced the price; also talked me out of purchasing UV glass until I need it. He took his time figuring out exactly what I wanted and how we could get it for the best price.
I am sold and don't think there is a place worth going but here again. I got severely gouged at another local framing shop in Alameda, but not here.
Fantastic business! Tom knows the key to success is to be honest and real. I can't wait to bring in more posters.
Seize the day, frame your framibles because you CAN afford it. Plus they have great discounts because of the move to the new shop. -
Review from Ashley H.
Alameda, CA
7/19/2011
This couple is AMAZING! Before I moved to Alameda I had looked everywhere in Sacramento to frame my oddly shaped wedding poster. The best price I could find was over 380 dollars! So....in the corner it sat.
But then once my husband and I moved to Alameda I was sick and tired of looking at the poor thing so I headed over to Alameda Custom Framing on referall from my father.
BOY AM I GLAD! Tom was so sweet. He smiled and cracked jokes but at the same time was so knowlegeable. And best of all the PRICE! He quoted me (including taxes and everything) a whopping 200! Talk about a STEAL!
I just picked up my frame today (Which was early btw) and I am more then pleased. Customer for LIFE :D -
Review from Clayton D.
San Francisco, CA
4/14/2009
This place is awesome.....The man who runs the place will bend over backwards to give you a good deal. I havent gotten my frames back yet, But I have gotten work done in the past here and I just had to yelp it. Two thumbs up.
Got my frames back...impeccable work...couldnt be happier -
Review from Steve S.
San Leandro, CA
2/8/2010
Honest, friendly and easy to work with, those are words I would used to describe Tom. As soon as I walked in he made me feel like a friend, that we been doing business for years even thou it's my first time in there. I've been searching for a place to frame my custom oil painting, it's 72" x 36".
The painting was brought over from my native country and it came with a custom frame. For some unknown reason the frame wasn't cut properly and there was a missing piece. Tom wasn't able to help me personally, but with his years of experience he recommend some people that could help me. I left the painting with him and one week later he called me to come and take a look at the work that was done.
The painting came out great and the framing looks really good from a distance, but you can see some minor cosmetic imperfections when you are standing right next to it. Given the circumstance that they had to work with I was really happy with the final product and believe that they really tried their best. I almost certain that given a better frame they would have done a perfect job on it. -
Review from joanne l.
Danville, CA
7/7/2011
My husband and I found Alameda Custom Framing after finding the place on Yelp. Before going to Tom, I went to another framing place and was quoted a ridiculous price for framing. Tom was really nice and helpful. He showed us frames ranging in different prices and even talked to us about the type of glass we might need. He quoted us a VERY reasonable price and we were thrilled. We were told the picture would be framed in a week, but we got a call from Tom 3 days later letting us know he had just finished our frame.
I went to pick it up today and didn't realize how big and heavy it was going to be. Tom carried it to my car and also padded and secured the picture frame in my car for me. He was really helpful and seems to really care about his workmanship and his customers. I will definitely go back again and would recommend him to everyone.
It is also nice to see a mom and pop store do well. Thanks Tom!!! -
Review from Tina D.
Alameda, CA
3/20/2009
I brought an art piece and frame into this shop after reading all the great reviews here on yelp. They absolutely deserve all 5 stars! Prompt service even before I walked in the door! As I struggled with a stroller, a frame, and the door, they raced to the door to help and then proceeded to take a look at the project.
Since it was late afternoon, I figured they wouldn't have a chance to work on it for a few days. By the time I got home a couple of hours later, there was a message on my machine cheerfully telling me it was finished.
Super friendly and great work! -
Review from L B.
Alameda, CA
8/21/2009
I called this place yesterday to ask what time they close and I was told that they close at 5:30 pm. I told the guy that I won't be able to get there till 5:40.....he said "Don't worry, I'll wait for you." I thought that that was really nice of him.
So I get to the store at he was there waiting for me. Tom was even nicer in person! He was very personable and helpful. I've never been to a custom framing shop before and I wasn't sure what my options were. After examining the rolled canvasses that I needed framing for, Tom walked me through my options very patiently and showed me different types of frames to choose from. He also gave me a great deal! I paid less than expected so I was happy. It was really a very cool experience and I can't wait to see the final product.
This place will definitely be my go-to place for custom framing. -
Review from Jack B.
Alameda, CA
1/12/2010
I went to these folks based upon these yelp reviews, and I don't regret it one bit!
They are very friendly, professional, and better than reasonable. I took in 5 photographs and posters for framing. 4 of them turned out fantastic. The 5th one, after a few days.... started to look wrinkled. I took it back in, and they re-did and made it look great for free. They kept it for 5 days because they wanted to make sure.
Nothing impresses me more than excellent work ethic, and the couple at Alameda Custom Framing have that. I am so glad that I now know where to go in the East Bay for custom framing. -
Review from William M.
Alameda, CA
1/4/2009
~It's Christmas Eve (Day) and I'm in a jam ! One of the presents for my parents is a large photograph of my Daughter. I ran down to Beverly's in the new Towne Centre and they didn't have a frame that fit, i realized my picture was a odd size....Panicky, I remembered seeing a little frame shop one night while stumbling out of the Lost Weekend. I raced over there and met Tom he said he could do the job and when did i need it "next week?" hahaha... I told him "Today" he laughed and got moving quickly he called his wife and told her about my emergency and he told me he would call me in a few hours. And what do you know? A few hours later he called me, the frame and workmanship were excellent. Tom and Helen have earned a customer for life and it is no wonder why they have been in business so long.
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Review from A Y.
Alameda, CA
4/3/2009
I brought a newspaper article of a family member to be framed as a gift....best work ever! The owner suggested a fantastic looking frame to go with it. And the price was cheaper than other frame shops that I have been to. I'll be sure to come back again!
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Review from Adrian S.
Alameda, CA
12/20/2010
Tom is awesome, his work is outstanding and his prices competitive. I would recommend Alameda Custom Framing to anyone
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Review from Marianne Grace L.
Hayward, CA
11/2/2010
Just picked up my order and I am psyched I love the frames! They look great! My husband and I brought in two oil paintings that were not normal dimensions. It was no problem at all for them. We were told the pictures/frames would be ready in one week and they ended up being ready a day early. Can't beat that!
There are so many varieties of frames it's unreal. Helen & Tom have a great eye for knowing which frames would look good based on the picture we really appreciated their honesty & expertise. In addition, they were upfront about the prices of each frame even suggesting more cost efficient alternatives that looked similar to the frames we liked. It's rare and refreshing when people are honest and actually try to help you save money especially in this economy!
The store is conveniently located about a block and half away from Park Street. The service,prices, and variety of frames is great. The icing on top is that the store owners are extremely knowledgeable and are as kind as they are cute.
I will definitely come back to get more pictures framed there! -
Review from alamedabrian m.
Alameda, CA
3/29/2009
I've had 14 pieces framed here in the past few weeks, and I can see why they get such high reviews. Great work, tremendously friendly service, and a good price. woohoo, indeed.
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Review from Christine C.
East Bay, CA
8/27/2009
Yelpers steered me towards this lovely store, and I can say that I will never drive to Berkeley again to get my framing done anymore. The owner, Tom, was so delightful, personable and super friendly. He helped me frame my lovely print of Windsor Castle by suggesting a standard frame with some custom touches to ease the cost (which did by a lot since I was expecting to pay $100 and only paid half). The end product was beautiful!
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Review from Dan W.
Oakland, CA
12/19/2009
Thanks to a kind yelper we found the new locationand are so thankful. As reported, Tom took wonderful care of us and our prints. We will definitely be return customers.
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Review from kevin h.
Oakland, CA
2/5/2010
Ok, I live in Oakland. Now, I bought a bunch of posters that I wanted framing up that were all odd sizes so they would have to be custom made. After looking at yelp I went to Tom. Tom has been in the business forever, over 30 years. He knows what hes doing and has a good eye for what would look good with a given picture/poster, whatever. He accommodated all my needs and under-promised/over-delivered. Said it would take 10 days and it took 6. What to go. Final product looked great.
I definitely recommend and would go back. I'm only giving him a 4 star b/c of two reasons:
a) Admittedly, my reference pricing is unreliable but I would've liked to have seen him be a little less expensive for me. I brought in 7 posters all at once and while I don't feel ripped off by any stretch, I think could've cut me a bit of a better deal.
b) He's old school so he's a bit of salesman. He had my business yet continued to try to convince me that he was a good guy and he deserved my business. Honestly, with a guy his age, it was more "cute" than annoying but it did get a little old after a while
4.5 stars for sure. -
Review from Ben R.
Alameda, CA
8/27/2009
What can I say about this place that hasn't been said? Just read all these reviews and you know where to go. I started coming here about a year ago and never looked back. Like "Nicholas C." from one of the previous reviews, I am an avid collector of rock art posters. If you haven't seen a lot of these, sometimes they can be hard to frame because of metallic inks, foil printing, extremely bright colors, and other crazy stuff they do with these posters. Sometimes it's tough to get the right look. Tom and Helen are amazing. They both have a great eye for framing and getting that perfect look for your print.
My first time in the store I showed up with a picture I had framed at another store. My kids had knocked it off the wall, breaking the glass and cracking the frame. Tom took a look at it, said "no problem" and a few days later it was good as new. And for less then half of what I was expecting to pay for the repair. The store is comfortable, the service is excellent, the quality is top-notch, and the price is right. I dropped off four more posters this morning and can't wait to get them back! What more could you want from the best framers in the bay? -
Review from Julie Z.
Oakland, CA
12/13/2008
I've been going to this Mom and Pop Frame shop for 10 years now and I just found out they are moving down the street. The owners, ,Tom and Helen are really nice people and really know what they're doing... very professional. They are completely honest about prices and will even tell you not to order something if they feel it's not needed. Helen is very artistic and has great suggestions on framing. My frames have always turned out perfect and I've never had a complaint! It's hard to find good, honest people these days, not to mention excellent work. Thank goodness they're not moving out of Alameda!
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Review from Will G.
Alameda, CA
11/30/2010
Picked up my frames the other day and I couldn't be happier with the results. The frames turned out perfectly and I couldn't have made the selections without the honest help and feedback of Helen and Tom. One art piece was purchased during my honeymoon and it had a lot of sentimental value which did not go unnoticed by Helen and Tom. They took absolute care of the work and my wife and I appreciated the extra effort. Prices are more than fair and timing was fast. Another local Alameda business I plan to support for many more years.
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Review from Kyu C.
Oakland, CA
1/1/2009
this place is the best frame shop that i've been to in town! they're a very honest mom and pop shop who've been at that location for over 35 years!! i went in there one day after having several of my favorite posters framed and it turns out that helen is an actual artist who comes from a deep background of artistic family members. who better to trust with your art than someone who has it pumping through her genes and have been doing this for years?? anyway, they have always been honest and kind people who do nothing but immaculate work. i'm just really happy that they've moved only a few blocks down on santa clara to a nice new shop!
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Review from zmoney t.
Brooklyn, NY
1/19/2010
I've come here a few times to get posters and pictures framed. They treat you with courtesy and respect, and are very detailed with their work. Most importantly, they were honest with their prices.
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Review from KEN K.
San Bruno, CA
10/14/2009
I came here because of yelp reviews. I had an open mind regardless of the reviews. But I realize after meeting Tom that the reviews were correct, he did give me a price for two prints that were very reasonable. I was happy with my two posters.
