As demand for custom framing and personalized art displays grows, the picture framing industry is on the rise. With an expected value of $14,676 million by 2031, framing businesses need to stay efficient to be competitive.
So, how can you effectively manage orders, keep up with customer expectations, and stay on top of service updates?
Streamlined operations and a seamless customer experience are the keys to success. This means using tools to automate routine tasks and providing dependable, high-quality service at every stage — from the first consultation to final delivery.
Explore these seven industry tips for growing your picture framing business, and see how tools like LifeSaver can simplify your operations and keep your customers happy.
Using the right tools is the first step to simplifying your ordering process. A point of sale (POS) system designed for custom framing businesses isn’t just for processing payments; it helps you manage everything from customer orders to inventory in one place.
An industry-specific POS system helps you track orders from start to finish, preview the cost of materials, manage inventory automatically, and keep customer details handy for repeat orders. Within seconds, you can pull up customer preferences or catch supply shortages before they cause delays.
Using a single platform for your picture framing business can reduce errors, speed up order fulfillment, and create a better experience for your team and customers.
Customers expect a wide selection of frames, so keeping your inventory fresh is essential. Use your POS system to connect with suppliers like Don Mar and RomaMoulding to see what’s trending, such as natural wood finishes, metallic accents, and minimalist styles.
Popular mat board colors like ivory and charcoal always do well, but don’t forget to offer bold colors and textured mats for customers looking to create eye-catching pieces. Regularly update your selection to reflect trends and meet customer preferences.
Keep sample corners readily available for customers to see and feel. Also, consider using a POS system with an integrated frame visualizer. This helps them see how their artwork will look in various styles, making it easier to upsell or recommend premium options.
Expand your picture framing business with various products and services that appeal to a broader customer base.
In addition to standard framing, offer shadowbox framing to highlight memorabilia and keepsakes, photo restoration to bring old images back to life, and custom matting to create a polished, professional look for artwork.
You can also sell advanced services like digital printing to let customers turn their digital images into finished framed pieces in-house. This adds convenience and variety to your offerings, attracting a wider audience. Providing more options boosts customer loyalty and sets your business apart from competitors.
Maintain an organized workspace to improve productivity and keep your picture framing business running smoothly. Here’s how to stay on top of your workflow:
Sort frame samples by size and style
Hang tools like mat cutters and glass cleaners
Stack mats, glass sheets, and backing boards by size
Set up workstations for assembly and fitting
Store scrap materials in labeled bins
Keep customer orders labeled and filed
Place cleaning supplies within easy reach
Keeping everything in its place declutters your workspace and reduces stress, especially during busy times. You can manage frame projects more efficiently and focus on customer service instead of searching for misplaced materials.
Building relationships with local artists is a unique indirect marketing strategy for your framing business.
Offer exclusive discounts on custom frames for their exhibits or special collections. For example, if their art focuses on nature, suggest natural wood frames complementing the theme to showcase their work.
Host artist showcases at your shop, featuring their fine art alongside your unique frame designs, like shadowboxes or floating frames. These collaborations strengthen your community ties and encourage word-of-mouth referrals, driving new clients to your business through artist recommendations.
Consistent, high-quality work is essential for a successful business in the picture framing industry. Perform regular quality control reviews to catch potential issues early.
Here’s what to check for each piece:
Verify frame dimensions match the customer’s order
Inspect mats and glass for any scratches, dust, or imperfections
Check frame corners for secure joints and tight alignment
Clean all materials before final assembly to remove fingerprints or debris
Confirm that packaging protects the frame for delivery or pickup
Incorporate these checks into your POS system’s work order process to keep your picture framing business organized and prevent rework or quality issues. Tracking each step helps maintain craftsmanship and minimize last-minute adjustments.
Promote your picture framing business online by focusing on building your online presence. Optimize your website with keywords like “custom framing” to rank higher on search engines. Claim and regularly update your Google Business Profile to improve visibility in local searches.
Share your finished framed projects on social media to showcase your artistry and connect with potential customers. Encourage happy clients to leave online reviews, building credibility and trust. Consider running targeted ads on platforms like Facebook to attract more visitors to your site, increase your visibility, and help new customers easily find and engage with your framing shop.
Running a thriving picture framing business requires managing orders, curating materials, and providing excellent customer experiences. The right framing software can support these processes, making daily tasks effortless.
LifeSaver has everything you need to run your shop. Track orders, manage inventory, and handle recurring clients with ease. Use visualizer tools and vendor integrations to improve the customer experience, helping them see frame options instantly. Automate your workflow to eliminate delays and keep the process smooth from start to finish.
LifeSaver Software has been a labor of love for over 30 years, evolving through countless improvements and designed to support your unique needs. Get your free trial today and discover how LifeSaver can help you manage your business and deliver quality results.