Picture Framer
Job Description:Picture framers mount items like photographs, paintings and other artwork for display.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this job, you’ll:
- talk to customers about what they want
- give advice on colours, styles and materials for mounts and frames
- work out costs and give quotes and timescales for jobs
- cut mount board, plastic and glass to the correct size
- create bevelled edges and joins using hand or machine tools
- mount artwork and assemble frames
- pack and deliver finished framed items
- stocktake and order supplies
Skills:
You’ll need:
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of the fine arts
- the ability to sell products and services (creativity)
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- the ability to work on your own (drive)
- the ability to work well with your hands
- concentration skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a picture framer, there are no specific subjects that are mandatory, but having a well-rounded education and certain skills can be advantageous for pursuing a career in this field. Picture framing is a skilled trade that involves customising and framing artwork, photographs, and other items. Here are some subjects and skills that can be helpful:
- Art and Design: art and design can provide you with a solid foundation in visual aesthetics, composition, and design principles. These skills are directly applicable to creating attractive and well-framed artworks.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for measurements and calculations related to framing, including determining the dimensions of frames and mats.
- Design and Technology: This subject can provide practical skills and knowledge related to working with tools and materials, which are essential for custom framing.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Familiarity with computer software and digital imaging can be helpful for creating digital mock-ups of framed artworks.
- Business Studies or Economics: If you plan to operate your own framing business, having a basic understanding of business concepts can be beneficial for managing finances and marketing your services.
- English: Good communication skills, both written and verbal, are important for discussing framing options with customers and documenting orders.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- working towards this role
- specialist courses run by professional bodies
College
You could start by taking a short course in picture framing run by a college or adult education centre. Some colleges may also cover picture framing as part of a broader art and design course.
There are no set entry requirements for this route.
Work
It may be possible to work your way into this role by starting as a gallery assistant.
Working alongside an experienced framer may give you the chance to train on the job.
Other Routes
You could train in picture framing by doing specialised courses with a gallery or framing company.
Career tips
Gallery experience or skills in woodworking may be useful.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 42-44 hours of work. You could be required to work weekends flexibly.
You could work from home or at a store. Your working environment may be dusty. You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could start your own business or take on a picture framing franchise.