In this episode of Inside the Frame, I sit down with Thomas Houston, co-owner of Houston's Custom Framing and Fine Art Gallery in Ashland, Oregon. Thomas brings over 39 years of framing experience, including the prestigious designation of Certified Master Picture Framer - a title held by fewer than 100 people worldwide.
Our conversation follows Thomas's journey from an art school graduate to a framing expert and business owner. We explore the challenges of starting and growing a framing business, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the evolving landscape of custom framing. Thomas shares insights on customer interactions, creative problem-solving, and the birth of his innovative Spark Frames line.
Key Takeaways
- The importance of self-confidence and being true to yourself when running a framing business
- How creating an in-shop "visual Pinterest board" can enhance customer experience
- The value of embracing new technologies and techniques in framing
- The unexpected success of Spark Frames and managing rapid business growth
- The renaissance of handcrafted frames and evolving consumer preferences
Thomas's story is a testament to the framing industry's power of passion, creativity, and adaptability. From navigating the challenges of COVID-19 to launching a successful new product line, his experiences offer valuable insights for framers and entrepreneurs alike.
About Thomas
Thomas’ background as a fine art painter gives him a unique perspective in the framing design process. Thomas is also an M.C.P.F. (Master Certified Picture Framer). There are currently fewer than 100 framers worldwide that have achieved this designation. This title was acquired after rigorous testing by the Professional Picture Framers Association on the proper handling of artwork. Thomas is the only MCPF in the state of Oregon. He has also published numerous articles on framing design and craftsmanship in Picture Frame Magazine – the top trade publication in the industry.
Resources
Popular Podcasts
Amy Robach & T.J. Holmes present: Aubrey O’Day, Covering the Diddy Trial
Introducing… Aubrey O’Day Diddy’s former protege, television personality, platinum selling music artist, Danity Kane alum Aubrey O’Day joins veteran journalists Amy Robach and TJ Holmes to provide a unique perspective on the trial that has captivated the attention of the nation. Join them throughout the trial as they discuss, debate, and dissect every detail, every aspect of the proceedings. Aubrey will offer her opinions and expertise, as only she is qualified to do given her first-hand knowledge. From her days on Making the Band, as she emerged as the breakout star, the truth of the situation would be the opposite of the glitz and glamour. Listen throughout every minute of the trial, for this exclusive coverage. Amy Robach and TJ Holmes present Aubrey O’Day, Covering the Diddy Trial, an iHeartRadio podcast.
Betrayal: Season 4
Karoline Borega married a man of honor – a respected Colorado Springs Police officer. She knew there would be sacrifices to accommodate her husband’s career. But she had no idea that he was using his badge to fool everyone. This season, we expose a man who swore two sacred oaths—one to his badge, one to his bride—and broke them both. We follow Karoline as she questions everything she thought she knew about her partner of over 20 years. And make sure to check out Seasons 1-3 of Betrayal, along with Betrayal Weekly Season 1.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.