Magic With Mirrors : Framex has low prices and more than 1,000 custom moldings in stock for specialty framing.
When trying to make your living quarters feel larger, the phrase “do it with mirrors” can take on spe cial meaning. Mirrors can be magical, opening up space, bringing in light--basically working wonders.
A mirror store that will frame to your specifications is not too hard to find, but a frame specialist that will frame mirrors is unusual. Framex, which offers some of the San Fernando Valley’s best deals on custom framing, has just opened a new department that focuses on the custom framing of mirrors.
Recent comparison shopping at several mirror and/or glass stores around the Valley proved the point that Framex also offers hard-to-beat prices on custom mirror framing. A one-quarter inch first-quality domestic mirror (36-by-48 inch) with a one-inch bevel was $94.98 at Framex--and up to $160 elsewhere. The nearest in price was Mirror Magic in Tujunga at $104.15. Although some of these stores had mirrors that already were framed, none offered the custom framing services that Framex does.
With more than 1,000 custom moldings in stock, Framex can frame any mirror, cut to any size, with or without a bevel. Of course, the labor involved in beveling increases the cost of the mirror. Without beveling, the $94.98 quote would fall to $55.80.
When buying a mirror, it is important that it has superior silver and abrasion-resistant backing. This is particularly vital when the mirror will hang in a bathroom, where moisture has a tendency to run down the mirror, causing the blackening often seen on the bottom and sides of many mirrors.
Bevels of any size, from one to three inches, and virtually any shape mirror can be made. If you want Mickey Mouse or a palm tree, it can be done. Just bring in the pattern.
Framex has an introductory offer that’s hard to beat. You’ll get a clean-cut (no bevel) mirror (up to 24 by 36 inches) free and 20% off the price of framing it.
Some inventory is already framed and on the wall in a room set aside for mirrors. The prices and workmanship are excellent. A stunning black lacquered frame with a gold fillet (an inner frame) measures 32 by 42 inches with a one-inch bevel and is $295. A comparison price at several other mirror stores ran between $350 and $425.
At the other extreme, a 24-by-36-inch mirror framed in a silvery gray mica was $49, and a mahogany framed mirror was only $39.
Geri Cook’s Bargains column runs every Friday in Valley Life! Questions about shopping may be sent to her, in care of Valley Life!, Los Angeles Times, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth, CA 91311. Letters will not be answered individually, but topics of general interest will be discussed in future columns. Geri Cook can be heard from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturdays on KIEV 870-AM.
Where to Shop
What: Framex.
Location: 4054 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Studio City.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday.
Cards: American Express, MasterCard, Visa.
Call: (818) 509-0700.
