Picture Framer

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Frame your future in a career that brings art to life.

As a picture framer, you’ll be the unsung artist behind every masterpiece, creating the perfect border between creativity and reality. Your precision and eye for design will transform blank walls into captivating galleries, one frame at a time.

Picture framers play a crucial role in the art and decor industry, specialising in the design and creation of custom frames for artwork, photographs, and memorabilia. Their work enhances the visual appeal of pieces while providing protection from environmental factors, contributing to the preservation of cherished memories and valuable art.

These skilled craftspeople blend artistic sensibility with technical expertise, using a variety of tools and materials to create frames that complement and elevate the pieces they surround. From traditional wood and metal frames to more contemporary designs, picture framers must stay abreast of current trends while mastering time-honoured techniques.

A typical day for a picture framer might involve consulting with clients to understand their needs, selecting appropriate materials, cutting and joining frame components, mounting artwork, and ensuring the final product meets high-quality standards. The role requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work with precision tools such as mat cutters, glass cutters, and joining equipment.

Your role may include duties as follows:

  1. Consult with clients to determine framing requirements and preferences
  2. Design and create custom frames using various materials and techniques
  3. Cut and assemble frame components with precision
  4. Mount artwork and fit protective glazing
  5. Advise on art preservation and display methods

Becoming a picture framer typically doesn’t require formal qualifications to start, but vocational training can be beneficial. Here’s a general pathway to enter this creative profession:

  1. Develop an interest in art and design, potentially through high school art classes
  2. Gain basic woodworking and crafting skills through hobbies or short courses, consider undertaking a Certificate II in Furniture Making Pathways (MSF20522) to gain foundation skills
  3. Research potential employers in your area via a search engine, social media or job site. Even if there are no jobs advertised with the employer you’re interested in, it can be a good idea to send a cover letter with your resume expressing your interest.
  4. Seek apprenticeship or entry-level positions in framing shops or art galleries
  5. Build a portfolio of framing work to showcase your skills to potential employers or clients
Also Known As:
  • Custom Framer
  • Frame Maker
  • Framing Specialist
  • Art Framer
  • Gallery Framer
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a picture framer include:

  • Craftsmanship
  • Customer service
  • Design acumen
  • Material knowledge
  • Precision
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a picture framer include:

  • Artistic
  • Attention to detail
  • Patience
  • Creativity
  • Adaptable
  • Realistic – “Do-er”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Furnishing Skills
  • Industrial Graphics Skills
  • Industrial Technology Skills
Core School Subjects:
  • Essential Mathematics
  • Essential English
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Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Picture Framer can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$45,000
Median
$50,000
High
$60,000

Vocational education and training can provide a solid foundation for aspiring picture framers. These programs offer hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge essential for success in the field. An apprenticeship is often the best way to get started in this career. You can undertake the following qualifications as apprenticeships:

  • Certificate III in Picture Framing (MSF30613)

As an apprentice you will combine work with formal training, allowing you to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade while earning a salary.

Duration: Apprenticeships typically last between 3 to 4 years for full-time participants. Part-time apprenticeships may take longer, depending on the individual’s work schedule and training progress.

Work and study combination: As an apprentice, you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). School-based apprenticeships may be available.

Eligibility: Generally, apprenticeships do not require any formal qualifications to enter, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including if you are a school leaver or someone looking to change careers. There are minimum age requirements and there may be other eligibility criteria.

Completion: On completion you will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, showcasing your skill and experience.

SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS, ACCREDITATIONS AND LICENCES

Picture Framers may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.

Useful qualifications for this role include:

  • Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520)
  • Certificate IV in Business (BSB40120)

Holding a degree in manufacturing, human resources, finance, economics, marketing or management can be helpful if you are considering taking a step into leadership or a business ownership position.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

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