Very high end framing source needed

Michele Rushworth · 09-22-2006, 05:18 PM

I am looking for a very high end source of frames for an important client. They would like a hand gilded frame that is 6" in width, with closed corners and has heavy carving and detailing. I need a frame source who will, ideally, wholesale to artists and who is VERY reliable. Any suggestions?

Scott Bartner · 09-23-2006, 03:10 AM

Just how high an end are we talking about? The frame maker who is spoken of with reverence in Europe is Paul Mitchell. He (literally) wrote the book.

http://www.paulmitchell.co.uk/index.html

Mari DeRuntz · 09-23-2006, 03:28 PM

In the US, you could start your research here:

In NY

Chris Saper · 09-23-2006, 09:13 PM

http://www.montgomeryframes.com/

Gerald Montgomery is a wonderful guy, he builds frames for the Cowboy Artists of America, and his frames are SPECTACULAR.

I say he is the Lexus of framemakers, but that may be selling him short. His company is in Tempe, ( and OMG you should see the leafing room!). Have him send you a catalogue.

I have only a few of his frames - they are $$$ and look it. Let me know if I can help you out locally

Michele Rushworth · 09-25-2006, 07:28 PM

Thanks everybody. I'm researching a number of sources and hope to find something a bit more affordable than my local retail place.

Garth Herrick · 02-07-2007, 10:27 PM

Michele, I hope you found a frame source.

In Philadelphia, I highly recommend:
PERAKIS FRAMES 18 S BANK ST PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106-2804 215-627-7700.

They framed the Union League President , which was an abitious custom frame requiring more than a month to build. They can reproduce ANY historic frame you desire. For the right client, they are worth the price. This frame amounted to about $3,600.00. Prices vary widely according to size and complexity.

Another framer I regularly use and recommend for court and private commisions is Mark Palermo, 20 Herman Street, Philadelphia, PA 19144
215 848-7887.

He is exceptionally good. Hand custom built, hand water gilt, closed corners, etc. for a mere fraction of the price.

I am not sure if Carl Laughlin is still active in Bucks County, but he is legendary among artists and collectors for his hand carved original frames. They were always very affordable too. He'd simply pencil in a rough profile on a napkin out of his head, get the chisels flying, and end up with a most tasteful elegant frame. He made the frame for my portrait of Mayor Ed Rendell for Philadelphia City Hall, and I know Nelson Shanks has used his services extensively. Now he's 80, so I think he may be done, unfortunately.

Garth

Michele Rushworth · 02-07-2007, 11:45 PM

Thanks, everybody, for your suggestions. Margaret Holland Sargent recommended I try Solomon Frames in California: www.solomonframe.com

I ordered a gold frame that is more than 6" wide with very detailed traditional American carving. With their 40% artist discount it will be $3,200 (retail would have been more than $5,000.)

I haven't seen it yet so I'll let you know how it turns out!

Julie Deane · 02-09-2007, 10:24 PM

Those prices take my breath away! I thought $800 was a lot (recent client).