Opinions Wanted Looking for a Return to Framing

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Say_What?

Grumbler in Training
Joined
May 31, 2010
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Hello all,
I worked as a framer for over 8 years. I left the business in 2004 and pursued other areas of interest. My training is what one would call "old school" (no experience with computerized mat cutters). I'm strongly considering getting back into the field on a part-time basis as I attend
school.

I've worked in a total of three shops. Six months at the first one learning frame cutting & assembly plus some light overall assembly work. A two year break and then I worked for six years for an elderly lady ( I was the only employee) which is where I learned most of what I know about framing. Another break of a year and a new shop opened (whose owner knew my previous employer) hired me to do all the framing and to teach them the processes.

I was at the third (and final shop) for two years. I was always in the workshop and never worked the counter as all the owners of the shops I worked at took care of that end of things.Having been gone for several years I'm wondering how much the industry has changed,and what further training should I consider to make myself more desirable to potential employers. Any thoughts/advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Douglas
Virginia, USA
 
What starting wage were you looking for?
 
If you framed something for yourself back then, bring it in to the interview. Let them take it apart and see what you know how to do. Make sure it is a piece you are proud of and know that you didn't cut corners. Or photos...got any?

After this much time off, you forget everything that you know how to do. Be ready with a list of your skills and what you can do. Let them know you know proper from improper. Be rehearsed in this.

Don't stress about the computerized stuff. If you are going to school then you know how to use a computer. The rest you will learn. But don't stress. Most shops with a CMC (computerized mat cutter) still have the tabletop cutters. BTW... old skool is if you use a straight-edge and box cutter to cut your mats.

Be prepared. They may hand you a worksheet and have you put something together on the spot. Make sure you don't have to be anywhere right away.

Dress appropriately. Nice dark pants (jeans/dockers), dressy/casual shirt. Avoid wearing a suit. As my husband says, dress for the job you want. A suit would not be appropriate for a framer. imo

Clean and organized, is how you want to be remembered. That goes for fingernails, hair and how you present your resume. It bothers me to see a resume being brought in as a single piece of paper. At least bring it in a manila file folder.

Ask questions. Ask hours, number of employees, what moulding companies do they carry, how long in business, if they have a a POS (point of sale framing order computer program), foot chopper or saw, CMC or manual mat cutter, are they looking to get a CMC, what their turn around time is, place orders 1 or more times a week, do they carry any boxed moulding. You may know some of these answers already. But asking will let them think you are still in the loop and current on the industry.

Be truthful. If you are not a designer, don't think you have the eye, or don't want to work the counter...let them know.

Framing is the same...if it's different where you end up...someone will show you how all the kids are doing it.

Good luck!
 
Thanks everyone for your replies. Sadly,I don't have anything from my framing days to take in as an example (I worked in Texas at the three shops mentioned). I still stay in touch with my last shop employer and if asked, I'm certain she would write me a letter or recommendation.

As far as a starting wage,since I'm only looking for a part-time position,whatever is considered fair in today's market would be fine. I was making $11.00 / hr. at the last shop I worked at. My next question is: Any thoughts on working at the big box stores?

Thank you once again for the insightful advice & kind words. Looking forward to being here and reading through the post to gain further knowledge.

Cheers,
Douglas
Virginia
 
Big box stores

I worked for year and half for a big box store(Christian:)......pay was awful, you also have to run departments ie., ordering, stocking etc., oh and if they are shorthanded which they always are then you have to help out in other departments.............it was a nightmare!!!:shrug:
 
CarolUK said:
I worked for year and half for a big box store(Christian:)......pay was awful, you also have to run departments ie., ordering, stocking etc., oh and if they are shorthanded which they always are then you have to help out in other departments.............it was a nightmare!!!:shrug:
Click to expand...

Hi Carol,
Your description sounds similar to what I've heard from others working in the big box store environment. Though it may prove to be more difficult, if employment is secured,hopefully it will be with an independent shop.

Cheers,
Douglas :thumbsup:
 
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