Customizing the custom frame: framers share tips of the trade

Art Business News, April, 2003 by Carol King

Constant innovation can have its drawbacks, noted Petrovich of Nelson's Fine Art Framing. "I make money at this because it is labor," he said, "but when every frame is handcrafted, the proposition can be money-losing from the get-go. When someone wants a brand new frame with a new finish, it's easy to do. When you are reinventing the wheel with each piece, it costs time and money."

Customizing is almost never cost-effective, noted Werchadlo of Noroton Gallery and Frame Studio. "You have to regard the project as a labor of love and do the job for someone who has the money to spend," she advised.

"Framers work under the conditions of a short-order cook, but they are expected to be in the category of a violin maker," she continued. "Yet, you cannot discriminate. You have to offer the services to all of your customers and hope they return for repeat sales down the line."

SOURCES

The Art Seller and Frame Shop, (828) 898-FRAME

Boris Artistry in Framing, (310) 275-8312

The Custom Framer, (847) 432-4630

Designs Ink, (661) 821-2188

Finer Frames, (208) 888-9898

Frame Craft/Lampros Gallery, (281) 367-6526

Gold Leaf Designs and Gallery, (423) 266-4453

Nelsen Fine Art Framing, (949) 494-6696

Noroton Gallery and Frame Studio, (203) 655-9687