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Picture Framer

Do you want to become a Picture Framer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

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Picture framers create frames to enhance the appearance of different forms of art and protect them from damage or aging. They may work with paintings, prints, tapestries and photographs, or three-dimensional objects like medals, model ships, trophies or collections. There are two main types of picture framers:

• production framers - who produce a range of frames which they sell to customers and retailers
• craft framers - who design frames on a bespoke basis, assembling each frame and professionally fitting the art into the frame to give the customer a finished article.

Framers work with various materials, including wood, metals and glass. Many are self-employed or work within a retail art shop, selling prints, cards and artists' materials.

Framers working in an art shop, a gallery, for a specialist photographer or in a workshop usually work 37 hours a week from Monday to Saturday. Work may be less regular for self-employed framers. They may work long hours to complete pieces of work, and might have to work in an art shop or gallery to supplement their income. Some work from home in a well-lit studio or workshop.

Salaries range from around £10,000 a year to over £20,000 for highly skilled framers working in specialist areas.

A picture framer needs to be:

• artistic and creative, with an eye for detail
• self-disciplined to complete work on time
• good at practical work and using their hands
• able to work carefully, neatly and accurately
• interested in art and design.

Employers include specialist frame shops, specialist frame makers, contract framers, art galleries, museums, photographers and art shops.

Formal qualifications in framing are not available, although some craft and design courses provide the principal skills. Private introductory courses are available. Courses are also offered by local colleges and adult education centres. There is no upper age limit to begin work as a framer.

To handle valuable items, a framer should be trained to conservation standards through the Fine Art Trade Guild.

Success for a self-employed framer depends on securing regular work and establishing a strong reputation. The Fine Art Trade Guild is the only professional body in the industry. Membership provides good networking opportunities. Within a larger organisation, promotion may be to a supervisory or managerial role. Highly skilled framers may move into specialist roles or teaching.

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