Framing for everyone

  • Frame your favourite print by a renowned artist or protect that rare print so it lasts a lifetime.

  • Frame your family’s precious photographs.

  • Frame your one-of-a-kind original artwork with flare with a sustainable recycled picture frame.

  • Display your qualifications in a formal frame.

  • You’ve spent hours creating an embroidered work of art so why not frame it?

My passion for detail is reflected in my perfectionist nature when it comes to framing. I can assist you with all aspects of framing and have a wide range of materials available.

Conservation framing

I offer a full conservation framing service. Your valuable art is framed using archival materials to prevent the possible harm caused by moisture, insects and light. You can also choose specialist glass to block out UV rays and prevent fading.

Matboard surrounds and spacers act by holding the glass away from the surface of the artwork, reducing damage due to condensation and pressure.  

Spacers are an alternative (or additional) option to a mat. They sit just beneath the inner edge of the frame to hold the glass away from the artwork, and can be made in a variety of finishes.

The frame mouldings are ordered from the leading suppliers in New Zealand, with a huge range of both imported and New Zealand-made frames. 

Photograph of Erica Leather in her picture framing studio

Image credit: Rachael Brown Photography

Making the framing process less daunting

Committing to having a precious piece of artwork framed can be a daunting decision, but with the right materials and expertise, the process can be made a lot more enjoyable.

You may need to learn more about framing or the options available to you, but rest assured, you'll be guided through the process in my relaxed studio environment. I'm here to help you choose the best option for you that suits your home and your budget.

I currently operate on an appointment only basis, and for basic jobs I can often give you a quote via email if you have an idea of the kind of frame you want, without you having to come and see me in person.

However coming to my studio is the best way to visualise how your framing job will look, and allow to you to view the extensive range of different mat board and moulding samples that I have on display.

I will go through all the options that best suit your artwork, making suggestions until we find the right combination that you are happy with.

Erica Leather Framing Rimu frame detail

Frame by Craig Bell Woodworking

Sustainability

I pride myself on being as sustainable as possible in my business practices.

In 2022 I teamed up with a local woodworker Craig Bell, who has a vast collection of different types of salvaged and reclaimed wood, much of it native timber. He makes beautiful wooden frames to order, in various sizes.

These might cost a little bit more and take more time to produce, but they are worth every penny.

Also, if you have a particular piece of wood that is important to you in some way, why not make a frame out of it?

Scraps of mat/ foam board get donated to local primary schools for craft projects, or are sent to the Nelson Community Artwork programme.

Your framed artwork will be packed using reused cardboard from deliveries or salvaged bubble wrap from house moves. Soft plastic is collected to be recycled into fence posts.

All small scraps of cardboard that are too small to be recycled and paper tissue used for cleaning glass (with chemical-free spray) are composted.

Photograph by Erica Leather of picture framing tools

Basic framing

Choose to frame using the standard technique and regular float glass. Whilst materials are not up to archival standard, they are acid-free – great if you’re on a budget!

No job is too small- if you just need some glass replacing or a new mat board cut for an existing frame, then this is not a problem.

If you are not satisfied at the time of collection I will happily rework it with you.

My studio is currently run on an appointment only basis.

Get in touch to arrange an informal, no obligation chat.

I offer a discount of 10% on your first order, and I am happy to match any price that is quoted locally.