Table of Contents
What Is Kachingo?
If you’ve ever wanted to turn a cherished photo, ticket stub, or piece of memorabilia into a polished display piece, you’ve probably come across kachingo. Kachingo is a UK-based service that specialises in creating custom, personalised box frames. Instead of buying a generic frame and hoping it fits, you upload your item’s details and they build a frame around it – with the depth and backing designed to preserve and highlight your keepsake.
Quick Answer
Ordering a personalised box frame from Kachingo involves choosing your frame style, entering the dimensions of your item, uploading any artwork or specifying mounting needs, and selecting extras like glass or acrylic. The process is designed to be simple enough for a first-time order while offering enough customisation for experienced collectors.
Step-by-Step Ordering Guide
1. Measure Your Item Accurately
Explanation: Before you visit the Kachingo website, measure the exact height, width, and depth of the item you want to frame. For irregular shapes, measure the widest points.
Reason: A precise measurement ensures the frame fits snugly and the item doesn’t shift inside.
Expected result: You’ll have the numbers ready to plug into the order form.
Helpful tip: Add 2–3 mm clearance on each side to allow for slight expansion of the frame material.
Common mistake: Forgetting to measure the depth of thick objects like medals or 3D souvenirs.
2. Choose Your Frame Profile and Colour
Explanation: Kachingo offers several moulding profiles (flat, slim, chunky) and a wide range of colours. Browse their gallery to see examples.
Reason: The frame style sets the tone for your display – modern or classic, bold or subtle.
Expected result: You select a profile and colour that complements your item.
Helpful tip: For memorabilia with lots of detail, a neutral colour like white or black keeps the focus on the item.
Common mistake: Picking a colour that clashes with the main hue of your keepsake.
3. Select Mounting and Backing Options
Explanation: Decide whether you want the item floating (glass-to-item) or recessed behind a mount board. You can also choose the colour of the backing board.
Reason: Different items look better with different mounting. A thick medal might need a deep floating mount, while a flat photo benefits from a neat mount.
Expected result: Your item sits securely and looks professionally presented.
Helpful tip: Use a neutral mount colour for photos; use a dark mount for bright items to create contrast.
Common mistake: Choosing a mount that is too thin for a heavy item, causing sagging over time.
4. Upload Artwork or Provide Dimensions
Explanation: If your item is a print, scan, or digital file, upload it. For physical items, you’ll enter the measurements and optionally upload a reference photo.
Reason: Kachingo needs this to verify proportions and ensure the frame interior matches your item.
Expected result: The system calculates the exact frame size and shows a preview.
Helpful tip: Take a photo of your item next to a ruler for the most accurate reference.
Common mistake: Uploading a low-resolution image that looks pixelated when printed.
5. Choose Glass or Acrylic
Explanation: Kachingo offers standard glass, non-reflective glass, and acrylic (perspex). Acrylic is lighter and shatter-resistant; non-reflective glass reduces glare.
Reason: The choice affects durability, weight, and visual clarity.
Expected result: You select the glazing that best suits where you’ll hang or place the frame.
Helpful tip: For frames over 50 cm, acrylic is recommended to reduce weight and risk of breakage.
Common mistake: Choosing standard glass for a large, heavy frame and finding it difficult to hang securely.
6. Review, Pay, and Confirm
Explanation: Double-check your selected dimensions, frame profile, mounting, and glazing. Then proceed to payment.
Reason: A quick review prevents costly mistakes.
Expected result: You receive an order confirmation email with a production timeline (usually 7–14 working days).
Helpful tip: Save your order details and measurements in case you want to reorder identical frames later.
Common mistake: Rushing through and accidentally ordering the wrong size because you misread the form.
Frame Options & Pricing
Kachingo offers several standard frame depths and materials. The following table gives a typical overview (prices are approximate and vary by size).
| Frame Depth | Material | Typical Use | Price Range (per linear inch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mm | MDF with foil finish | Flat photos, prints, certificates | £1.20 – £1.80 |
| 35 mm | Solid wood | Medium items like medals, small plaques | £2.00 – £3.50 |
| 50 mm | Hardwood with deep rebate | Thick objects, 3D memorabilia | £3.00 – £5.00 |
Pros & Cons of Kachingo Box Frames
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fully customisable – every frame is made to order | Lead time can be 2–3 weeks during busy periods |
| Wide colour and profile selection | Shipping costs add up for larger frames |
| Option to use acrylic for child-safe display | Digital preview is not always 100% accurate for colours |
| Excellent customer service for sizing help | Returns not accepted for custom-made frames (as expected) |
Pre-Order Checklist
- ☐ Measure your item’s height, width, and depth (in mm).
- ☐ Decide on a frame colour – check against your wall or decor.
- ☐ Choose mounting style: floating, recessed, or padded.
- ☐ Select glazing: glass, non-reflective, or acrylic.
- ☐ If using a print, ensure resolution is at least 300 DPI.
- ☐ Prepare a reference photo of the item with a ruler.
- ☐ Review the order summary before checkout.
- ☐ Confirm delivery address and any special instructions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: The frame I received is slightly too tight for my item.
Reason: You may have measured without accounting for a mount board or protective sleeve.
Solution: Contact Kachingo support immediately – they often can adjust the rebate depth if caught before dispatch. For future orders, add 1–2 mm clearance per side.
Problem: The colour of the frame looks different from the website.
Reason: Monitor calibration differences can affect colour perception.
Solution: Order a free colour sample pack from Kachingo before placing your full order.
Problem: My item moves inside the frame after a few days.
Reason: The mounting wasn’t secure – perhaps you chose a floating mount for a heavy item.
Solution: Add small transparent photo corners or archival tape to hold the item in place. For future orders, opt for a recessed mount if the item is thick.
Best Practices from Experienced Customers
- Use a consistent measurement system. Always work in millimetres – converting between inches and cm introduces errors.
- Order a sample kit first. If you’re unsure about colours or materials, Kachingo sells a small sample set of finishes. It’s a small investment that prevents regret.
- Consider the display location. Frames in direct sunlight should use UV-protective glass or acrylic to prevent fading.
- Group multiple frames. If you’re framing a series (e.g., graduation photos), order all at once. Kachingo can batch produce identical frames more efficiently.
- Plan for future additions. Leave extra space in a large box frame if you intend to add more items later.
Expert Tip
When framing items with sentimental value, always use acid-free mounting materials. Kachingo offers archival-quality backing – select this option to protect your keepsakes from yellowing and deterioration over decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Kachingo take to make a custom box frame?
Typical production time is 7 to 14 working days from order confirmation. Larger or complex orders may take a little longer, especially during holiday seasons.
Can Kachingo frame anything, or are there restrictions?
They can frame most flat and shallow 3D items up to a certain depth (usually 50 mm). Items that are fragile, perishable, or extremely large may require special consultation.
What if I enter the wrong measurements?
If you notice before production starts, contact customer support immediately to correct the order. Once the frame is cut, it cannot be changed, but Kachingo’s team is known for helping adjust within a short window.
Do I need to send my physical item to Kachingo?
No – you only provide the dimensions and optionally a photo. The frame is built around the measurements you give. You keep your item and insert it yourself or have a local framer do it.
Is there a money-back guarantee?
Since each frame is made to order, returns are not accepted unless there is a manufacturing defect. They do offer colour sample kits to avoid dissatisfaction. Always review the preview carefully before paying.
Final Thoughts
Ordering a personalised box frame from Kachingo puts you in control of how your memories are displayed. By following the measurement guidelines, choosing the right mounting and glazing, and using the pre-order checklist, you’ll avoid the common pitfalls that lead to disappointment. The extra time spent planning upfront pays off in a finished piece that looks professional and lasts for years.