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Creative Matting, Framing & Designs

Picture Framing & Matting

Custom picture framing in Alamosa

Original art, photos, diplomas, cross-stitch, jerseys and keepsakes. Bring it in, choose the frame and mat beside it, and Dennis builds it in the shop.

Framed painting of a yellow Chevy tailgate in a brushed silver frame
  • Framing since 1987
  • PPFA certification
  • Family-owned and family-run
  • 4 customer discounts
  • Satisfaction guaranteed

What we frame

If it matters to you, it can be framed.

Creative Matting, Framing & Designs frames almost anything: original paintings, canvas, photos, posters, diplomas, needlework and 3D pieces like watches, hats and sports memorabilia in a shadow box. If a piece is special to you, the goal is to protect it for life.

The shop works with six suppliers and carries more than 350 frames in metal, wood, hand-finished, carved and gilded styles. There are floater frames for canvas that needs no glass, shadow boxes for objects, and mounting for flat work. Mats are cut to order, and Dennis also cuts hand-carved mats with custom designs.

This is the work Dennis O'Dowd has done since he moved from drawing and sculpting into framing. He holds PPFA certification, and because he is an artist himself he looks for a creative touch on every order instead of a plain mat and frame. The result should feel one of a kind, which is the difference from a big-box framing counter.

“I have always loved to find a creative touch for my customer's picture, not just to do a simple plain matting job. I always hope that my customer feels their piece is one of a kind.”
Dennis O'Dowd, matting and framing specialist
University diploma in a black frame with a white mat

Framing, matting and repairs

Everything we do at the framing bench

  • Regular picture framing

    Prints, photos and posters in standard frame styles, finished quickly.

  • Custom picture framing

    A frame built for your piece from more than 350 styles, including floater frames and shadow boxes.

  • Custom matting

    Custom-cut and precut mats, single or double, plus hand-carved mats with your design.

  • Glass replacement and installation

    New glass fitted to a new frame or one you already own.

  • Picture frame hanger installation

    Hanging hardware added so the piece goes straight on the wall.

  • Frame repairs

    Broken corners, loose joints and damaged frames put right.

  • Glass repairs and replacement

    Cracked or scratched glass swapped out without reframing the piece.

  • Mat repairs

    Worn, stained or faded mats replaced to match or refresh the look.

  • Picture repairs

    Pictures and artwork damaged in shipping or over time, repaired where it can be done.

Discounts for military, first responder, student, artist.

How it works

From the counter to your wall

  1. 1

    Bring the piece in

    Call or text to let Dennis know you are coming, then bring the art itself. Choosing is easiest with the piece on the table.

  2. 2

    Choose the frame and mat

    Frame corners and mat samples go right beside your art. Dennis and Danielle show options without pressure, and can send choices electronically if you cannot stay.

  3. 3

    We build it in the shop

    Most framing and matting is finished in about two weeks. Some frames take longer to arrive from the supplier, and you will hear the timing before you commit.

  4. 4

    Pick up, delivery or shipping

    Collect it at the shop, or ask about delivery and shipping.

Recent framing

  • Old window frame turned into a six-photo collage of mountain wildlife
  • Framed word art tribute with a light blue double mat
  • Framed painting of a brown trout with a gold fillet and cherry frame
  • Framed watercolor of Notre-Dame in Paris with a black and blue double mat and a gray frame

Framing questions

Before you bring it in

How long does custom framing take?

Most framing and matting is finished in about two weeks. Some frames take longer to arrive from the supplier, so Dennis will give you a time when you choose.

How many frames can I choose from?

More than 350, from six suppliers, in metal, wood, hand-finished, carved and gilded styles, plus floater frames and shadow boxes.

What can I get here that I can't get at Michael's or Hobby Lobby?

Custom framing with a personal touch from an artist who builds it himself, so years later you can see the care that went into your piece.

Can you frame 3D objects?

Yes. Watches, hats, sports memorabilia and other keepsakes go in shadow boxes built to hold them.

Bring in the piece you have been meaning to frame.

Call or text Dennis, tell him what it is and how big, and set a time to come by.

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