How to Start a Picture Framing Business the Right Way

Launch a Picture Framing Business: A Practical Guide

You love art and crafts. Friends ask you to fix a frame or mount a print, and you enjoy making pieces look their best. You start to wonder if this could be your own shop.

Plenty of people feel that pull. A framing shop is a hands-on business with real clients, clear steps, and steady local demand. This guide walks you from idea to opening day—no fluff, just the actions that matter.

Read through once, then work each section in order. Keep notes as you go. When you reach the end, you will have a ready-to-launch plan.

Pre-Start Foundations

Before you buy tools or sign a lease, check that this business fits your life. You will stand for long stretches, handle glass, and work with precision. You will also talk with customers and protect items that mean a lot to them.

Think about demand in your town, how you will reach buyers, and why people would choose you over a big-box store. Decide what support you have at home for evenings and holidays when traffic rises.

Use the links in this section to save time and avoid trial and error.

Fit and readiness: Review your time, budget, and risk tolerance. See Business Start-Up Considerations and An Inside Look at Business Ownership.
Motivation: Be clear on why you want this work and what will keep you going when projects pile up. See Passion and Staying Power.
Market demand: Frame shops rely on local needs—artists, galleries, schools, offices, and homeowners. Review basics of Supply and Demand to set expectations.
Build vs. buy: Decide if you will start from scratch or buy an existing shop with equipment and clients. See Build vs. Buy.

Skills You Need

You can start solo, but you still need two kinds of skills: business skills and craft skills. If a skill is missing, plan to learn it or hire for it. Be honest here—it affects safety, quality, and launch timing.

List what you are strong at today, what you can learn fast, and where paid help makes more sense. Add target dates for each gap.

Business Skills

These skills help you set direction, price work, and run the day-to-day. You do not need to master everything on day one, but you must cover each area.

Use a mentor or pro advisor if needed while you learn.

Basic planning and budgeting; write short plans and track simple numbers. See How to Write a Business Plan and Mission Statement.
Pricing and estimating for custom work; build price templates. See Pricing Your Products and Services.
Marketing basics: website, local search, referrals, and simple promotions. See Create a Marketing Plan.
Vendor setup and purchasing: order materials, check lead times, and track stock.
Legal and tax basics with help from a pro. See Building a Team of Professional Advisors.

Craft Skills

These skills affect quality and safety. If you lack any of them, schedule training or hire an experienced framer to set up your shop and train you.

Start with simple projects, then add advanced options as skills improve.

Cutting and joining moulding with a mitre or double-mitre saw and underpinner.
Mat design and mat cutting (manual or computer-assisted); clean bevels and square corners.
Glazing work: cutting glass and acrylic; choosing UV and anti-reflective options.
Mounting methods: hinges, pressure-sensitive, cold mount, and (when appropriate) dry mount; conservation practices and acid-free materials.
Fitting, sealing, and hardware installation for safe hanging.
Shop safety: machine guarding, eye protection, cut-resistant gloves, and safe handling of chemicals and cleaners (review Safety Data Sheets).

Research the Business

Good research protects your budget and helps you pick the right mix of services. Spend a few afternoons mapping your area and calling suppliers. Note exact lead times, minimums, and delivery days.

Keep a simple spreadsheet for findings. Highlight anything with long lead times or delivery risks.

Market: Count likely buyers—artists, galleries, photographers, schools, businesses, homeowners. Note art fairs and seasonal peaks.
Competitors: Visit local framers and big-box stores. List what they offer, their service speed, and presentation. Look for gaps you can fill.
Service scope: Custom frames, conservation framing, shadow boxes, canvas stretching, object framing, repairs, ready-made frames, hanging and installation.
Pricing models: Use a structured menu: moulding per inch, mat layers, glazing type, mounting method, fitting, and hardware. Build three good-better-best options. See Pricing Your Products and Services.
Suppliers: Identify sources for moulding, matboard, glazing, backing, hardware, adhesives, and packaging. Record shipping terms and breakage policies.

Business Model and Planning

Decide who you serve and how you will stand out. A clear offer helps buyers choose fast and helps you quote with confidence.

Write a short plan you can use, not a long document that sits on a shelf.

Positioning: Choose one or two focus areas to start, such as conservation framing for fine art, fast diploma frames, or gallery support with installations.
Packages and upsells: Create three standard tiers (for example: standard, conservation, museum) with clear differences in matting, glazing, and hardware.
Assumptions: List expected jobs per week, average ticket, material margins, lead times, and rework allowance. Keep numbers simple and consistent.
Plan document: Draft a concise plan with mission, target market, offers, pricing, launch budget, and milestones. See Business Plan Guide and Mission Statement.
Solo or team: Decide if you will go solo or add a partner, investor, or early hire. Define who does sales, who does shop work, and who handles admin.

Funding

Estimate how much you need to get to opening day with a small buffer. Break costs into categories so you can phase purchases if needed.

Use personal savings, small loans, or help from family if appropriate. Keep debt modest and tied to assets that help you serve customers now.

Budget categories: Lease and build-out, insurance binder, permits, tools and machines, work tables and storage, initial stock (moulding, mats, glazing, hardware), packaging, POS, website and signs, and basic marketing.
Sources: Savings, bank loans, credit union loans, microloans, or a small partner investment. Consider a secured line only if you have a clear plan to repay.
Proof of concept: Start with small orders and sample builds to confirm workflow before buying higher-end machines.

Legal and Compliance

Most steps here are straightforward. Do them in order and keep copies of approvals. When something varies by location, use the verification bullets below.

If you feel stuck, ask an attorney or accountant. See Build a Team of Professional Advisors.

Choose a structure: Sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or corporation. Register with your state if required.
Employer Identification Number (EIN): Apply online with the Internal Revenue Service; free.
Sales and use tax: Register if your state taxes retail sales of frames and materials.
Local business license or tax registration: Many cities or counties require a general business license for a retail shop.
Zoning and occupancy: Confirm the location allows retail framing. Ask whether a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) and any fire inspection are required before opening.
Sign permit: Check before installing exterior signs.
Hiring steps (if you will have employees): State employer accounts for withholding and unemployment insurance; workers’ compensation as required by your state.

Varies by jurisdiction:
- State entity registration — State Secretary of State portal: search “Business entity formation” and “Business entity search.”
- Sales tax permit — State Department of Revenue portal: search “Sales and Use Tax registration” or “Seller’s permit.”
- City or county business license — City/County business licensing portal: search “Business license” or “Tax certificate.”
- Zoning and CO — City Planning/Building Department: search “Zoning map/use,” “Certificate of Occupancy,” and “Fire inspection.”
- Sign permit — City Planning/Zoning: search “Sign permit.”
- Employer accounts — State Dept. of Revenue and State Dept. of Labor: search “Employer withholding registration” and “Unemployment insurance employer.”
- Workers’ compensation — State workers’ compensation office: search “Workers’ compensation employer requirements.”

Smart questions to ask agencies:
- “Which forms do I file to start a retail framing shop at this address?”
- “Do I need a Certificate of Occupancy before opening and will there be a fire inspection?”
- “Which sales are taxable and how do I file returns?”

Brand and Identity

Your brand makes buying easier. Keep it clean and consistent across the shop, cards, website, and packaging. Aim for simple choices that reflect your style.

Secure your name and keep handles consistent so clients can find you fast.

Name and availability: Check state records and matching domain and handles.
Logo and basic kit: Colors, fonts, and simple rules for use. See Corporate Identity Package.
Business cards: Keep your card clean: services, lead time, and how to book. See Business Cards.
Website: Home, services, gallery, prices or price guidance, lead times, and contact. See How to Build a Website.
Signage: Street-visible sign and window hours. See Business Sign.
Marketing plan: Local search, partners (galleries, photographers), and referral offers. See Create a Marketing Plan.

Equipment and Software

Buy the essentials first, then add advanced gear as volume grows. Choose quality where safety and accuracy matter. Arrange your shop so materials flow from design to cutting to joining to fitting.

Use a simple checklist and mark items you already own. Add storage and safety items—you will use them daily.

Design and front-of-house: Design counter; sample corner sets and matboard chevrons; display rails or walls; ready-made frame display; neutral lighting; stools or chairs for consultations.
Cutting and joinery: Mitre or double-mitre saw with fine-tooth blade; underpinner (V-nailer) and wedges; moulding clamps; stops and fences; miter guillotine (optional).
Matting: Professional mat cutter (manual or computer-assisted); fresh blades; squaring tools; slip sheets; deburring tools.
Glazing and backing: Glass cutting table; cutters and running pliers; acrylic cutting tools; storage racks for sheets; backing board shear (optional).
Mounting: Cold-mount roller or press; tacking iron; archival hinges and tapes; suitable adhesives; weights and boards.
Fitting and hardware: Point driver; brad nailer (as applicable); dust covers; spacers; D-rings, screws, hanging wire, bumpers; corner protectors; shrink-wrap supplies.
Safety and compliance: Machine guards; ANSI-rated eye protection; cut-resistant gloves; first-aid kit; eyewash access; fire extinguisher; Safety Data Sheet access; bins for glass scraps and waste.
Storage and fixtures: Vertical racks for glass, acrylic, and matboard; moulding racks; flat files; carts; packing area with padding and boxes.
Transport needs: Clean vehicle space, moving blankets, edge protectors, and straps for deliveries and installations.
IT and POS: Point-of-sale system; payment terminal; receipt printer; label printer; computer; basic photo capture for before/after shots.
Software to consider: POS for retail, job pricing/quoting, design layout tools, simple bookkeeping, and a website platform with gallery support.

Physical Setup

Plan a simple flow: design counter in front; cutting and joining in the middle; mounting and fitting toward the back; storage along walls. Keep glass vertical and secured. Keep blades sharp and guarded.

Check zoning and occupancy early to avoid delays. Confirm any inspections before you open.

Floor plan: Clear paths; stable work tables; good task lighting; dust control for clean fitting.
Ventilation: Provide fresh air where you use sprays or solvents; store flammables safely.
Storage: Racks for long mouldings; dedicated bays for glass and acrylic; flat files for mats.
Utilities: Adequate power and outlets for saws and underpinner; safe cord management.
Parking and load-in: Reserve a safe loading spot for bulky pieces and deliveries.

Varies by jurisdiction:
- Zoning and use — City Planning/Building Department: search “Zoning map/use” for the address.
- Certificate of Occupancy and fire inspection — Building/Fire Department: search “Certificate of Occupancy” and “Fire inspection requirements.”

Insurance and Risk

Insurance protects your shop, tools, and customer property. Some landlords and event sites require proof before you get the keys or install on site.

Call a broker who works with small retailers and show them your equipment list and floor plan.

General liability: Covers basic third-party claims at your premises and during installations.
Business property: Covers tools, machines, and stock; ask about glass breakage and off-site work.
Workers’ compensation (if hiring): Often required by the state when you have employees; ask about thresholds and exemptions.
Customer property in your care: Ask about coverage for art and memorabilia left with you.
Certificates of insurance: Some commercial clients will request a certificate naming them for installation work. Ask for lead time to issue documents.
More detail: See Business Insurance.

Maintenance and Supplier Relationships

A clean, sharp, and organized shop saves time and reduces waste. Good suppliers keep your schedule moving and your costs predictable.

Choose at least two suppliers for critical items to avoid stockouts.

Maintenance: Blade changes on a schedule; alignment checks for saws and mat cutters; dust removal; guard and safety checks.
SDS and waste: Keep Safety Data Sheets available and follow rules for any hazardous materials and glass disposal.
Suppliers: Set terms, delivery days, and reorder points for moulding, mats, glazing, backing, hardware, and packaging.
Quality standards: Specify acid-free mats and backers, UV or anti-reflective glazing options, and approved mounting methods.
Breakage policy: Clarify credit/replacement rules for damaged deliveries before you place the first order.

Pre-Launch Readiness

Before you announce an opening date, run full test jobs from quote to pickup. Confirm your price menus, lead times, and check-in forms. Build a small portfolio so customers can see your work at a glance.

Walk through your safety plan and verify posters and documents are in place.

Portfolio and samples: Frame a set of sample pieces showing common options and price tiers.
Policies: Clear terms for timelines, deposits, and handling customer items; a check-in form that records condition, contact info, and approvals.
Templates: Quotes, work orders, pickup slips, and receipts.
Payments: POS set up for cards and contactless; sales tax settings confirmed.
Safety readiness: Safety Data Sheet access; machine guards; eye protection on hand; first-aid kit; eyewash access; fire extinguisher.
Website content: Services, gallery, simple price guidance, lead times, and contact.
Referrals and testimonials: Ask early customers for short quotes and permission to share photos.

Go-Live Checklist

Use this checklist the week you open. Keep it on a clipboard near the counter. Check boxes as you finish each item.

If anything on the list is still pending, set a date to complete it and do not delay items that affect safety or legal status.

Legal and tax: Entity set (if applicable), EIN received, state sales tax account active, city or county business license posted.
Location approvals: Zoning confirmed; Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or required inspections passed; sign permit approved if needed.
Employer steps (if hiring): State employer registrations completed; workers’ compensation set when applicable; labor posters up.
Shop setup: Machines guarded and tested; blades sharp; racks secured; clear paths; clean fitting area.
Safety: Safety Data Sheets accessible; eye protection available; first-aid kit and fire extinguisher in place.
Tools and materials: Moulding, mats, glazing, backing, hardware, packaging, and cleaning supplies stocked.
Documents and templates: Price menu, work order, pickup slip, and receipt templates ready.
POS and website: Payment terminal tested; sales tax set; website live with contact form; map pin correct.
Marketing kickoff: Email or social post with opening date and sample photos; partnerships contacted (galleries, photographers, schools).
Schedule: Clear lead times posted; calendar set for installs and pickups; buffer time reserved for rework.
Review: Walk one test order end-to-end and fix any bottlenecks.

Smart Agency Contacts and Questions

When you call or visit an office, have your address and a short description of your shop ready. Be polite and write down the name of the person who helps you.

Keep the questions simple and specific. Confirm steps in writing when possible.

State Secretary of State: Ask how to register your chosen structure and how to search name availability.
State Department of Revenue: Ask how to register for sales and use tax, which sales are taxable, and how to file.
City/County Business Licensing: Ask which local license you need for a retail framing shop and where to pay.
City Planning/Building/Fire: Ask if the address allows retail use, whether a Certificate of Occupancy is required, and if a fire inspection is needed before opening.
State Department of Labor: Ask about employer account steps and workers’ compensation thresholds if you will hire.

Keep Your Launch on Track

Open with a simple offer, clean samples, and clear policies. Deliver on time and keep safety first. Add advanced services when your workflow is steady.

If you are unsure about a legal or tax step, confirm with the proper office or an advisor. Good choices now save time later. See Avoid These Mistakes When Starting a Small Business for common pitfalls to avoid.

101 Tips for Running Your Picture Framing Business

Picture framing blends design, precision, and local service. The right habits before launch set the tone for quality and trust. Use these tips to plan, prepare, and open with confidence. Each one is practical, clear, and made for a first-time owner in the United States.

Read through once, then act section by section. Keep notes as you confirm local requirements, build your supplier list, and refine your offers.

What to Do Before Starting

Walk three competing shops and a big-box store to see offers, lead times, and presentation; write down what you will do differently.
Decide your starting scope: custom frames only, or custom plus ready-mades, repairs, and installations; start narrow and expand later.
List the skills you have now and the ones you must learn or hire for (saw operation, mat cutting, glazing, mounting, sales, bookkeeping).
Price three common jobs in your area (diploma, 8×10 photo, canvas stretch) to understand local price bands and your positioning.
Sketch a simple floor plan that flows from design counter to cutting, joining, mounting, and fitting; plan secure vertical storage for glass and acrylic.
Confirm local zoning for your address and ask whether a Certificate of Occupancy and any fire inspection are required before opening.
Call your state tax office to confirm whether picture frames and related materials are taxable and how to register for sales tax.
Apply for an Employer Identification Number and open a business bank account to keep personal and business money separate.
List two suppliers for each key material (moulding, matboard, glazing, hardware) and note delivery days, minimums, and damage policies.
Build a lean launch budget that covers rent or workspace, core machines, initial stock, signs, insurance binder, and a basic website.
Choose a business structure with an advisor’s help if needed; register your entity or file a DBA as required by your state.
Confirm you can safely handle glass and cutting tools for long periods; if not, plan training or hire a part-time pro for setup.

What Successful Picture Framing Business Owners Do

Keep a three-tier price menu (standard, conservation, museum) so customers choose quickly and you quote consistently.
Document a clear standard for clean cuts, tight joins, dust control, and final wipe-down so every piece ships the same way.
Stock the top 20 mouldings and top 10 mat colors your market buys most, then special-order the rest.
Protect customer pieces with a check-in tag, photos, and handling notes from the moment they arrive until pickup.
Post visible lead times and meet them; if a delay occurs, call before the due date with a revised date customers can trust.
Batch similar tasks (all chopping, then all joining) to reduce setup changes and keep work flowing smoothly.
Use acid-free materials by default on valuable or irreplaceable items to avoid future damage and build reputation.
Track rework causes and fix the source, whether it is blade wear, alignment, or dust control.
Photograph finished pieces for your gallery, with permission, to demonstrate quality and style.
Set weekly supplier calls for backorders, substitutions, and new product introductions so you are never surprised.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

Write simple step-by-step procedures for quoting, ordering, cutting, joining, mounting, fitting, and pickup.
Create a maintenance schedule for saws, underpinner, and mat cutter; log blade changes and alignment checks.
Set minimum and maximum stock levels for glass, acrylic, matboard, backing, wire, and common hardware.
Use a one-page job ticket that travels with each piece and shows due date, materials, and special notes.
Stage projects on labeled racks by due date so nothing gets buried.
Set a daily open/close checklist: guards in place, PPE available, floors clear, trash emptied, and tools returned.
Train staff in safe glass handling, blade safety, and proper lifting; practice before handling customer art.
Standardize packaging with corner protectors, dust covers, and labeled hanging instructions.
Designate one person to order supplies twice a week and to check deliveries against purchase orders the same day.
Post emergency numbers, first-aid location, eyewash location, and evacuation routes where everyone can see them.
Keep Safety Data Sheets accessible for adhesives, cleaners, and finishes; train on labeling and handling.
Use a simple scheduling system that blocks time for installs and pickups to avoid overbooking.
Set written roles: who quotes, who cuts, who joins, who mounts, and who completes final fitting and quality check.
Display required labor and safety posters where employees can see them, and keep them current.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

Most shops classify under retail home furnishings; confirm your NAICS code with your accountant or state agency.
Retail sales of frames and materials are taxable in many states; ask your state revenue office how to register and file.
Graduations, holidays, and art shows drive seasonal spikes; plan staff and stock accordingly.
UV-filtering and anti-reflective glazing add protection and clarity; learn when to recommend each option.
Conservation framing relies on acid-free mats, stable backers, and reversible hinges to protect the item.
Hanging hardware must match weight and wall type; recommend proper anchors to reduce risk of falls.
Glass disposal and solvent use may be regulated; check local rules for waste handling and recycling.
Carrier damage can occur during deliveries; photograph packed items and keep receipts for claims.
Some installations require certificates of insurance at client sites; ask about requirements before scheduling.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

Claim and complete your business profile on major map platforms with photos, hours, and service descriptions.
Build a simple website with services, gallery, price guidance, lead times, and contact form.
Use consistent name, address, and phone across your website and listings to help local search.
Show before-and-after photos of reframing and restoration to demonstrate value.
Create a referral program for photographers, galleries, and designers with a clear benefit and easy tracking.
Offer three curated “gift-ready” options during peak seasons to speed decisions.
Host a framing basics night with a local artist to build trust and generate word-of-mouth.
Collect project photos with customer permission and share one finished piece per week on social channels.
Partner with schools for diploma framing specials and clear deadlines.
Place a simple window display that changes monthly to showcase materials and styles.
Run a soft-opening week for friends and partners to test flow and gather testimonials.
Use printed cards that list services and typical lead times; hand them out at art fairs.
Feature a “materials spotlight” post each month that teaches one concept, such as UV acrylic or spacers.
Maintain a short email list and send seasonal reminders, framing ideas, and care tips.

Dealing with Customers (Trust, Education, Retention)

Start each consult with questions about where the piece will hang, lighting, and desired look to guide material choices.
Explain the difference between standard, conservation, and museum options so clients understand trade-offs.
Handle customer items with clean hands, protective surfaces, and careful documentation to build confidence.
Use a written estimate that lists materials, lead time, and deposit terms to prevent confusion.
Get written approval for design choices and any changes before ordering materials.
Offer a simple home-hanging guide that covers hardware, anchors, and safe heights.
Call a day before pickup to confirm time and remind customers to inspect on-site.
Invite clients to join a short email list for care tips and future offers tailored to their interests.
Record preferences in your system so returning clients see options they liked before.
Follow up one week after pickup to ensure the piece is hanging safely and to request a short review.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback)

Publish clear policies on deposits, changes, cancellations, and storage fees after the due date.
Offer a workmanship guarantee that covers joins, fit, and hanging hardware for a defined period.
Set a rework process: who inspects, who fixes, and how you notify the customer with a new delivery time.
Define a pickup process that includes inspection at the counter and safe transport tips.
Document how you handle damage claims with carriers or suppliers, including photo requirements.
Capture feedback at pickup with two quick questions: what they loved and what could be better.
Respond to online reviews within two business days with a personal, specific note.
Keep a simple log of service issues and address the root cause to prevent repeats.

Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term)

Optimize cuts for moulding, matboard, and glazing to reduce scrap and cost.
Save offcuts of popular mat colors and small hardware for repairs and tiny projects.
Recycle cardboard and separate glass where local rules allow; ask your hauler for best practices.
Choose low-VOC adhesives and cleaners when suitable and ventilate work areas.
Use LED lighting in displays and work zones to cut energy use and protect art.
Source from regional suppliers when possible to shorten lead times and reduce transport risk.
Track waste by category monthly and set a small reduction goal each quarter.

Staying Informed (Trends, Sources, Cadence)

Review conservation guidance from reputable preservation organizations to keep methods current.
Read safety updates and refresher materials on machine guarding, PPE, and chemical labeling annually.
Check your state tax site each quarter for filing deadlines and rule updates that affect retail sales.
Scan supplier catalogs each season for new mouldings, glazing technologies, and hardware.
Visit at least one trade show or supplier open house per year to see tools and materials live.
Hold a monthly one-hour review of your pricing, rework rate, and lead times to spot trends.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

Build a seasonal calendar with order cutoffs for graduations and holidays, and post it in-store and online.
Keep a small buffer of high-turn materials during peak months to avoid stockouts.
Adjust lead times proactively when supplier delays hit; call customers early with options.
Introduce new services—shadow boxes, installation, or canvas stretching—when your core workflow is steady.
Test a computer-assisted mat cutter when volume justifies it to improve precision and speed.
Monitor competitor changes quarterly and update your tiers, samples, and messaging accordingly.

What Not to Do

Do not copy or reproduce art without rights; get written permission or decline the work.
Do not use non-archival materials on valuable items; explain risks and offer a safer option.
Do not skip safety gear or remove guards to move faster; one injury can shut down your shop.
Do not promise same-day service unless you have stock and capacity to deliver reliably.
Do not open your doors before permits, tax registrations, and required postings are complete.

Sources: U.S. Small Business Administration, Internal Revenue Service, OSHA, EPA, U.S. Census Bureau, Library of Congress, Smithsonian, National Gallery of Art, American Institute for Conservation