A Viable Market?

[earlypaper]

A small, local molding/framing manufacturer has approached me as an investor in a new product line of reproduction (grain painted, paint decorated, lemon gold), frames based on historically accurate profiles.
Is this a viable market?
I'm a collector of American works on paper who spends in the low five figures on framing annually. I'm generally knowledgeable on the industry and have the business experience to evaluate the financial aspects and risks of the proposal. But, I'm stumped on the size of the market, and ask the Grumblers for help.
From your experience, do you have customers who would want this type of framing, even at the premium price it might command? One a year? One a month? One a week? One a day?
I need you feedback (either on the Board or by e-mail to help me assess this without my own bias.
Thanks for your help. And, thanks for all the wonderful frames you've made for our collection over the past 10 years.

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[This message has been edited by earlypaper (edited December 10, 2001).]

[This message has been edited by earlypaper (edited December 10, 2001).]

 

[JRB]

I'm not familiar with the type of frame your describing. I'm sure if I saw one I would recognize it though.

Selling high end frames is going to have a lot to do with the economy and the location.

If you feel it is a good, saleable product, I would advise you have a few dozen made up and see if you can move them yourself. That may cost you the price of a few dozen frames but it sure would beat being the owner of a few thousand frames that won't sell at all.

Sometimes it's better to throw a few bucks away to learn, than it is to throw a few thousand away to get an education.

Good luck, and welcome to The Grumble.

John