Keeping the Art of Creating Handmade Picture Frames Alive
In today's fast-paced digital age, where images are stored in the cloud and viewed on screens, you might think framing photos and art are a thing of the past.
But people still want to have memories kept alive, in a way that they can touch and feel. And they are still creating original art. A beautiful custom-made frame adds value and the finishing touch.
At Boston Frame Works, owner Brian Beam is keeping the art of custom made picture frames in Boston alive:
“Our shop is unique. We buy raw lumber, mill it, shape it, sand it, and finish it using exclusive, custom-created finishing techniques. We handcraft our frames, one at a time — the way it was done before moulding was mass-produced. Most other shops use outside companies to do much of the work. We won’t do that. If we could grow our own trees, we would.”
Let’s take a look at the art of picture frame craftsmanship. We’ll explore the history, and the sheer joy of creating something beautiful from humble wood.
THE ORIGINS OF PICTURE FRAMES
Custom picture framing has been a part of art and photography for centuries, changing style along with the artwork they hold. Picture framing was first used to protect and add to the appeal of paintings. But over time, frames became a part of the artwork itself, defining and adding to the artist’s vision.
In the Renaissance period, ornate frames became a symbol of wealth and power, like the gold frames on the works of masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. The frame's design often reflected the style of the time when the art was created.
As art changed, so did framing styles. From the elaborate, heavily carved Baroque frames of the 17th century to the modern thin and sleek frames of the 20th century.
THE APPEAL OF HANDMADE PICTURE FRAMES
In today's mass-produced world, handmade picture frames are a testament to craftsmanship and individuality. There are lots of reasons why crafting picture frames by hand from raw lumber is an art form worth preserving:
Personalization: Handmade frames can be tailored to match the exact dimensions, colors, and materials of the artwork, creating a perfect fit and style.
Quality: Craftsmen like Brian choose only high-quality raw lumber, making sure that the frame not only complements the artwork, but also provides protection against environmental factors that can damage it.
Artistic Expression: When you work with a custom frame maker, you get artistic freedom in designing the frame. Craftsmen can include unique details, such as carving, staining, painting or gilding that are exactly what you want. That you may not find in a ready made frame.
Sustainability: Choosing raw lumber from trusted suppliers of sustainably harvested wood means quality and beauty standards are met, while staying environmentally friendly.
THE JOY OF CREATING
Crafting a picture frame from raw lumber is a rewarding experience that combines artistry, woodworking skills, and personalization. By working with a custom picture framer, you will discover the joy of creation through:
Connection to Tradition: The time-honored tradition of frame-making connects you to artisans and craftsmen from centuries past.
Creative Expression: Each handmade frame is an opportunity to express your creativity, whether through the choice of wood, finishes, or decorative details.
Preservation of Memories: By framing cherished artwork or photographs, you play a part in preserving and cherishing important moments in your life for future generations.
The art of handmaking picture frames from raw lumber is a timeless craft that bridges the past and the present, the perfect combination of tradition and personal expression. You create connections between your memories and the physical world, preserving the beauty of photographs and artwork in a digital age.
