Skilled Trades

Picture Framer

SOC 51-7099 · ESCO 7522 · OSCA 399533

REA INV ART SOC ENT CON This role See your match →

Role snapshot

Overview

A Picture Framer measures artwork, selects appropriate mouldings and mats, and precisely cuts and manufactures custom frames. This role involves advising customers on presentation options, using specialized tools and techniques to protect and display various art pieces, photographs, and memorabilia, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and preservation.

Preserves and enhances the aesthetic value of artwork and cherished items, providing clients with bespoke display solutions that protect their investments and personal treasures.

On the job

  • Consult with customers to understand framing needs and presentation preferences.
  • Measure and cut mat boards, glass, and frame mouldings with precision.
  • Assemble frames using various joining techniques and mounting methods.
  • Advise on appropriate materials for preservation, such as acid-free mats and UV-protective glass.
  • Perform minor repairs or adjustments to existing frames and artwork.
Picture Framer at work

Tools & technology

Mat cutterFrame chopper/sawV-nailerPoint driverMeasuring tapes and rulersGlass cutter

Average salary

$48K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$35K Bottom 10%
$65K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational training, apprenticeship, or significant on-the-job experience in custom framing or woodworking.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Picture Framer
Framing Business Owner

CURRENT ROLE

Picture Framer

Skilled Trades

ADJACENT MOVES

Art Restorer
Custom Furniture Maker
Framing Apprentice
Gallery Assistant
Retail Sales Associate

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

R

realistic · RAS

Individuals who enjoy hands-on, practical tasks, possess an artistic eye for aesthetics, and are comfortable interacting with customers to provide tailored solutions often thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Detail-oriented

Applies meticulous attention to measurements, cuts, and the overall finish of framed pieces.

Creative eye

Enjoys selecting appropriate materials and designing presentations that enhance artwork.

Customer-focused

Comfortable engaging with clients to understand their needs and offer solutions.

Steady hands

Excels in precise manual tasks requiring fine motor skills and patience.

Calm under pressure

Manages multiple custom orders and client expectations without becoming flustered.

Best for

  • Individuals who enjoy working with their hands to create tangible, high-quality products.
  • Those who appreciate the blend of artistic design and technical execution.
  • People who thrive on solving unique, custom challenges for clients.

Watch out for

  • Requires consistent precision; errors can be costly in terms of materials and time.
  • Customer-facing role means managing diverse expectations and sometimes difficult requests.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Picture Framer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Workshop setup & brief review
Customer consultations & design
Mat & glass cutting
Frame moulding cutting & joining
Tue
Frame assembly & mounting artwork
Customer pick-ups & sales
Complex custom work
Wed
Inventory check & ordering
Customer consultations
Mat & glass cutting
Frame joining & assembly
Thu
Detailed custom framing projects
Quality control & finishing
Customer pick-ups & new orders
Fri
Workshop maintenance & tool care
Final assembly & packing
Customer consultations & sales
End-of-week admin & closing
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

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