A modern frame of preference

MEGAN WARD - Sunday June 18th - MoneyWise
mward@charlotteobserver.com

Custom framing can be daunting. It's not cheap, and trying to visualize what frame matches which mat can prove frazzling.

But Kassandra Ulchar, 37, owner of Applewood Gallery, a custom framing shop on Park Road, can show you what your artwork will look like in the frame without actually doing the framing.

"That uncertainty that people get with custom framing -- this eliminates that because you know what you're getting," said Ulchar.

Last fall, Ulchar acquired the Wizard Integrated Framer, which she has nicknamed "WizViz."

A digital camera mounted on the ceiling by Ulchar's husband, Tony, photographs different frames and mat options and the piece to be framed. Ulchar then digitally crops sections of mats and frames, and with a click gives customers an on-screen preview of their finished projects.

Customers can view different options side by side, and WizViz also allows customers to see what a frame will look like against a particular wall color.

The WizViz service is a free perk, and Ulchar said that customer response has been tremendous.

"It's fun to come in and basically play dress up with frames and mats," said Ulchar.

Ulchar found WizViz at an industry trade show in Atlanta. She has been using Wizard's computerized mat-cutting technology for 2 1/2 years.

The mat cutter allows her to cut complex shapes -- including an elaborate ash tree outline -- with ease and efficiency.

"It's almost like having a part-time employee," said Ulchar.