Compare prices at Michaels and AC Moore. They do framing. It can still be expensive. What we've done in the past to save money is to look around the store for a frame we like in a size that would work for the piece of art we have and then just pay to get a custom mat cut.

Cup of Jo did a blog that recommended an online framer: http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2014/07/a-great-way-to-frame-art.html I ordered a couple for some prints I have and they were good.

For advice on mats, frame etc you might one to try going to one in person though. I like the Framer's Workshop in Tenley, the guy who owns it is really nice and knowledgable and you can do some of the framing there yourself to cut down on costs (they cut the glass and do all the tricky technical bits) you clean the glass, load the picture and attach the fixings.

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I don't know why this is challenging me so much... but...

I bought a beautiful print of the sea and mountains. the entire thing is 20 * 16 inches; there is a border (white) around the edges that is bigger on the sides (vs the bottom and top). it's signed.

I think it needs a silver frame. What size? I love, love plein air frames but because of the white border and signature I can't use one in this case. Should I get a mat? please help!

Also any good cheap sources online esp. for frames appreciated.