Frames & Framing:

Custom Framing Services

Our showroom in Emeryville, California. More photos »

The true test of a frame is how well it suits the picture. Although beautiful materials and craftsmanship are indispensable — a picture can only be well-framed if it's in a well-made frame — the frame must, above all, serve the picture. With more than 30 years of framing experience, I take pride in my expertise as a complete designer of framing. Because framing involves careful and subtle considerations as to color, proportion and form, the ideal arrangement is for you to bring your pictures to the showroom where we can meet personally and work together. Alternatively, many customers send me their artwork; I routinely provide custom framing by mail, enhanced by telephone and email correspondence and the Internet.

Holton Studio provides personal and individualized attention, no-nonsense design, and framing of unsurpassed beauty — the creation of a frame-making studio unique in the industry. Your inquiries are always welcome — or (800) 250-5277. — Timothy Holton

View our portfolio of custom framing

Frequently asked questions

Who are our customers?

Because we're located in the San Francisco Bay Area we attract most of our customers from Northern California, but our unique approach, extraordinary product quality, and design service have earned us a nationwide clientele (we've had orders from nearly every state!) More on mail order custom framing.... Whether they're artists, serious collectors or just individuals who simply appreciate the things they look at every day, our customers care deeply about the pictures they live with, and seek a refreshing alternative to conventional frame shops. While we've made a specialty of framing for the Arts and Crafts home (Craftsman bungalow and mission oak interiors), I am singularly devoted to a timeless and vital design approach, and a versatility appealing to anyone who loves wood, fine craftsmanship, and harmony between picture and frame. Read testimonials.

What kinds of items do we frame?

We get framing orders for everything from the ordinary and commonplace — inexpensive posters, family photos and certificates — to the extraordinary and rare — historically significant oil paintings, artifacts and works on paper. We also frame textiles, and have created shadow boxes and display cabinets for objects such as watch collections, spoons, etc. In short, we frame whatever you treasure, as long as it can reasonably be hung on a wall. Mirrors too, of course, are a large part of our business.

How much does it cost?

Custom archival framing jobs start at around $250. Prices reflect the exceptional and enduring value of custom closed-corner, solid hardwood frames hand-crafted in a small studio. Also keep in mind that my design approach often saves customers money: economical design often leads to economical price. Whereas many frame shops shamelessly up-sell their customers to a showy, overblown presentation that's often trendy and seldom wears well, I take a very direct, restrained and self-effacing approach based on timeless principles. A well-framed picture should never have to be framed again.

How long does it take?

Most custom orders ship 3-10 weeks from the time they’re placed. Occasionally delays occur. However, we are almost always able to positively commit to and meet firm deadlines.

Can I be confident in how my work is handled?

The job of the framer begins and ends with caring for the artwork. Your work will be in the hands of experienced professionals, accustomed to the demands and expectations of an intelligent clientele — artists, galleries, museums and serious collectors. We are skilled in the proper handling of valuable artwork and contemporary archival framing techniques. Archival materials and framing methods are provided, and we supply ultraviolet filtering glass (or acrylic, when appropriate) for items vulnerable to u.v. exposure. Holton Studio Frame-Makers is fully insured.

We welcome your inquiries — or (800) 250-5277.