First, let me take a moment to inform you about 99% of the molding you get from frame shops and galleries all across the country. The molding they use, regardless of appearance, is pretty much the same "rapid growth" wood, which is soft and porous. It is then either laminated with a veneer or coated, to give it a finished look. These moldings are mass produced and have no "intrinsic value" as time passes and share the same "45 degree" cornering technique.
    This is what prompted me to look at providing an "alternative" to this standard molding. I wanted something that would be "unique" and increase in value as time passed. And I was really looking for an alternative to "45 degree" cornering.
    I start by recycling wood whenever possible, whether it be furniture, floors, tables, old trim, etc. If I can't find what I am looking for there, then I go to the "candy store" of hardwoods, both domestic and exotic. Every frame starts from either recycled or raw stock and is planed true. I like to choose hardwoods with lots of character. For example, when looking at Ringworm Maple, I favor stock with the most eye-catching details.
    And while I am there picking out your choice of wood, I also "cherry pick" (pun intended) other woods that stand out, regardless of it's origin. If it's "distinctive" from the rest of the stock, I pick it up for future use. I will also consult with you to get a "feel" for what you are seeking and help you choose a particular species that will best fit your decor/motif.
    So if you choose Walnut, you can rely on on me to choose the right tones of a particular stock.
    I will also help you choose the width and thickness of the frame, relevant to it's intended use. And you will have a choice of "router" patterns that best suits your taste.
    All corners are half lap for several reasons.

• It is a distinctive look and a big part of what makes my frames stand out from the rest.
  
• Half lap corners are far superior in strength than 45 degree cornering, with 3 surface areas holding the corners together. No medal is used or required.
  
• Half lap corners will not come a part, separate or gap over time. This happens to 45 degree corners because all of the expansion and contraction takes place on just one seem. So eventually, that corner/joint will gap.
• The corners are superior in aesthetics, in my humble opinion.

    And you can choose from a variety of dowels or leave the dowels out. It's up to you. So with your input, you get a much more "personalized" frame.