Picture Framing Business Overview

Picture framing involves protecting and displaying artwork, photographs, memorabilia, and documents using specialized materials and techniques. Professional framers work with customers to select appropriate materials and design elements that complement each piece while providing protection from environmental factors like light, dust, and humidity.

These businesses require specialized equipment for precise cutting of frames, mats, and glass, along with knowledge of preservation techniques and design principles.

The main business models in the picture framing industry include the following:

• Retail Frame Shop: A storefront operation offering both custom framing services and ready-made frames, with in-house frame assembly and design consultation.
• Online Custom Framing: A web-based business that provides custom framing services through digital design tools and ships completed frames to customers.
• Mobile Framing Service: A traveling framing business that brings tools and samples directly to customers’ homes or offices.
• Frame Wholesale/Distribution: A business that supplies ready-made frames and framing materials to retail shops and other businesses.

Related: Checklist To Start A Business

How Do Picture Framing Businesses Make Money?

Picture framing businesses generate revenue through various services and products that cater to both individual consumers and commercial clients. These businesses combine materials, craftsmanship, and design expertise to create finished pieces.

• Custom Framing Services: Picture framers charge for designing and assembling frames tailored to customers’ specific items. This includes selecting appropriate materials, measuring, cutting, and assembling the frame components.
• Ready-Made Frame Sales: Businesses stock and sell pre-manufactured frames in standard sizes. These frames come in various styles, materials, and price points to meet different customer needs.
• Conservation Services: Framers provide specialized preservation techniques for valuable artwork and historical documents. This includes using archival-quality materials and UV-protective glass to prevent deterioration.
• Corporate Services: Framing businesses work with offices, hotels, and other commercial clients to frame artwork and certificates in bulk. These contracts often include installation services.
• Mat Cutting and Glass Services: Framers offer individual mat cutting services and glass replacement for existing frames. These services help customers refresh or repair frames they already own.
• Art Installation: Many framing businesses provide professional hanging and installation services for framed pieces, particularly for commercial clients or large collections.
• Frame Restoration: Businesses repair and restore damaged or antique frames, including refinishing, replacing damaged components, and structural repairs.

Industry Statistics

The picture framing industry provides services to preserve and display artwork, photographs, and memorabilia. This industry falls under NAICS code 449129 – Picture Framing. Here are some statistics that detail the state of the picture framing industry.

Picture Framing Industry Size & Growth: The North American picture frame market generated approximately $3.5 billion in revenue last year. The industry has shown positive growth, expanding at an average rate of 3.2% annually over the past five years. This growth pattern is expected to continue, with projections indicating a sustained annual increase of 3.2% through 2030. This continued expansion is driven by increasing consumer spending on home interior decoration and growing applications for picture frames in both residential and commercial settings. (Straits Research)

Picture Framing Profit Margin: Picture framing businesses typically operate with gross profit margins ranging from 45% to 65% on custom framing services. Net profit margins generally fall between 8% and 15%, with variations based on location, competition, and operational efficiency. Custom framing services often achieve higher margins than ready-made frame sales.

Also See: Ideas for Naming a Picture Framing Business

Costs To Start a Picture Framing Business

Starting a picture framing business typically costs between $20,000 and $150,000. The amount varies based on the size of the operation and whether you choose a retail location or a home-based setup. Here are some of the common expenses when starting a picture framing business.

Equipment and Tools: A complete set of framing equipment includes computerized mat cutters, glass cutters, joining equipment, and hand tools. Professional-grade equipment for a full-service framing operation typically costs between $8,000 and $35,000.

Initial Inventory: Frame moldings, matboard, glass, backing materials, and hardware form the basic inventory needs for this type of business. A starter inventory should include various frame styles, mat colors, and glass options to serve different customer preferences. Initial inventory investments generally range from $5,000 to $25,000.

Retail Space: If operating a retail location, costs include the first and last month’s rent, security deposit, and basic renovations to create an attractive showroom and workspace. Retail space setup typically requires $15,000 to $40,000, depending on location and necessary modifications.

Point of Sale System: A computer system with framing software helps calculate costs, manage inventory, and process orders. The software allows framers to show customers digital previews of their finished pieces. Complete systems with hardware and software typically cost between $2,000 and $7,000.

These estimates provide a general idea of startup costs, but actual expenses will vary by location and business size.

Resources:
Picture Framing Magazine
Professional Picture Framers Association
Fine Art Trade Guild