Frameworks Picture Framing, Thames
When people visit our wood-cabin workshop in the heart of Thames, they often arrive carrying something precious – a memory, a milestone, a piece of family history, or a work of art that deserves to be seen and preserved. Our job is to honour that story through custom framing that’s not only beautiful, but built to last.
We’re a husband and wife team – I’m Linny, and my husband Bradley is the expert hands behind every frame we make. Bradley is a trained conservation picture framer, having learned the craft directly from the previous owner of the business. He’s been doing this work for almost five years now and has completed over a thousand custom picture frames in that time. He approaches each project with care and precision, using archival techniques and materials that help preserve and protect artworks and sentimental items for the long term.
Bradley is autistic, and his attention to detail, love of structure, and focused craftsmanship are a perfect match for the kind of intricate, hands-on work that custom framing demands. He’s always been drawn to creative processes that require patience and precision (like building model kits at home), and those same qualities come through in every frame he builds.
I (Linny) joined the business in May this year, shortly after Bradley and I were married in December 2024.
With a background in hospitality, social work, and youth work, and doing art in my spare time, I’ve always loved connecting with people — and custom framing has turned out to be a surprisingly perfect fit.
I really enjoy hearing the stories behind the pieces people bring to us, and then helping them to creatively choose frames and mat boards that honour those stories and enhance the character of the item.
Recently we’ve had the honour of framing some amazing pieces: a delicate cross-stitch of Jemima Puddle-Duck made by a grandmother for her brand-new granddaughter; a puzzle completed by a customer who wanted to remember her mother who loved puzzles and had passed; and a beautiful pair of antique paintings from 1895, which we’re currently framing with ornate mouldings made in Italy to match their timeless character.
We also frame the artwork of Bradley’s mum, Kylie Gunn – a well-known local artist recognised for her murals and commissions throughout Thames and beyond. She’s one of our most creative customers when it comes to framing. Kylie often chooses bold or unexpected frame styles, and even combines two mouldings into one to achieve a truly unique effect that lifts the character of her pieces. It’s always exciting working with someone who sees framing as part of the artistic process. Much of her beloved artwork is on display and for sale at Bite Café in Thames – and lots of our frames are on display there too!
We offer a fully custom, made-to-order framing service, which means no two projects are the same. Whether it’s a painting, photo, certificate, textile, or something entirely unexpected, we help guide customers toward the best aesthetic and protective options. We work with three excellent suppliers who provide us with high-quality mouldings, glass, and archival materials — and because everything is ordered specifically for each job, our turnaround time is usually 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how quickly materials arrive.
One of the key things we want to share is the importance of using the conservation method when framing anything valuable or sentimental. Whether it’s an artwork, a certificate, or a child’s drawing, proper framing ensures your item is protected from damage and deterioration over time. We use acid-free mat boards, UV-protective glass, and reversible mounting methods to keep your piece safe and intact. We’re not a repair shop — our focus is on preserving and presenting pieces before they become fragile or damaged.
We often find that the addition of a matboard doesn’t just offer protection — it can also completely transform the final look of a piece. We have a wide range of colours available, and by thoughtfully choosing tones that highlight the artwork or its story, we can take something from looking good to looking truly special.
Framing isn’t just about display — it’s about preserving moments, celebrating stories, and creating something meaningful for the long term. Whether it’s a family heirloom or something quirky and fun, we’d love to help you bring it to life with a frame made just for it.
If you’re curious about how custom framing works, or wondering what’s possible with your item, pop in for a chat. We’re always happy to guide you through the options.
Frameworks Picture Framing
📍 311 Mary Street, Thames
📞 027 568 4856 or 021 0246 1170
📧 frameworks38@gmail.com
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Words by Linny & Bradley Gunn
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