
As an industrial designer turned framer, I’ve always been fascinated by the challenges that walk through our door.
Just this morning, I found myself contemplating a pair of ceremonial brass masks from South America – exquisite pieces with barely any mounting points, requiring a solution that would preserve both their integrity and visual impact.
These moments remind me why I love what we do. After three decades in this industry, I’ve learned that the most challenging pieces often yield the most satisfying solutions.
The Problem-Solving Approach
When you’ve been entrusted with something irreplaceable – whether it’s a historical artifact or a piece of family heritage – there’s no such thing as a standard solution. Sometimes, I’ll walk past a challenging piece for days, letting possible approaches percolate until the right solution emerges.
Recently, we were presented with a collection of craftsman’s tools from the 1860s. These weren’t just antiques; they were a tangible connection to our colonial history. The challenge wasn’t simply mounting them securely – it was creating a display that would tell their story while ensuring their preservation for future generations.
The Value of Expertise
What I’ve learned over the years is that exceptional framing is about more than technical skill – it’s about understanding the significance of each piece we handle.
When someone brings in a family heirloom or a significant investment piece, they’re not just looking for a frame; they’re seeking assurance that their treasure will be preserved and showcased appropriately.
If you have something meaningful that deserves more than a conventional framing solution, let’s discuss how we might approach it. Sometimes the most challenging pieces create the most remarkable results.