Advice for new start-up please

[Far North Framer]

I have been framing my own photographic work for resale for a couple of years. Having had my work on display in a local gallery, Ive had lots of enquiries about framing from other artists. As a result, most of my income last year was framing other people's work.
Hopefully, in 6 months time I will have a new workshop and gallery in which to work and it's time to start think about some better framing equipment as all the kit I have currently is entry/hobby level.
I anticipate fairly low volumes as we're quite remote, in the Summer maybe 5/6 frames a week, hopefully more when I start drumming up business. I would really value your thoughts/recommendations on the essentials - mitre cutter, underpinner, mat cutting etc. and any things to watch out for buying used equipment.
Great forum, Ive found it really helpful already.

[sim.on]

If you don't have it already then the Axminster mitre trimmer is a must (believe me truly excellent and works perfectly with plastic) after cutting moulding to length with the Nobex Proman 110 saw and Frameco EZY measure system! I only have the Frameco 860B Matmaster for mount cutting, I always cut by sight only and get perfect results every time with the middle bit falling out with no overcuts.

[sim.on]

Oh and it's always handy having a Veritas 4 way speed clamp hanging around.

[guzzijim]

If you don't have it already then the Axminster mitre trimmer is a must (believe me truly excellent and works perfectly with plastic) after cutting moulding to length with the Nobex Proman 110 saw and Frameco EZY measure system! I only have the Frameco 860B Matmaster for mount cutting, I always cut by sight only and get perfect results every time with the middle bit falling out with no overcuts.

If you want an Axminster mitre trimmer PM me, it also has measuring extensions and a spare set of blades.

[Far North Framer]

Thanks for comments so far. I should maybe have mentioned that Im currently using the Nobex saw, Logan 'Pro' frame joiner and Mat Master cutter/guide. I cut glass by hand with an oil filled cutter with a rule. Whilst these have served me well so far, I think I'm starting to realise the limitations on accuracy and flexibility with this set-up. So, I am wondering what might be the next step up in anticipation of increased volumes (forever an optimist!) ?

[The Underpinner]

Hi Far North Framer,

I myself started framing my own photographic material, and have now progressed to the point where I'm opening my own framing shop in Fort William, Lochaber so I'm not that far away from you. Also, I started with the Nobex/Logan Pro joiner, Logan mountcutter, and axminster mitre trimmer; but quickly found that the pro joiner did not give consistently good mitre joints. I've since progressed to the pretty standard CS88, Morso F, Ultimat Gold etc (at least for small framing businesses). If you are interested in some 2nd hand equipment, I have a Morso BA guillotine, Keencut Laser 1200 mountcutter and a Euro 8008 butterfly underpinner that are surplus to my requirements. Still have the Logan stuff but I wouldn't wish it on anyone.
Anyway let us know when you get a workshop and I'll pop in, I head up to Durness area for a bit of photography every now and again.

regards
Allan

[Custard]

I agree with Allan. I'm also a photographer turned framer and there's no doubt that even though Logan kit is fine for making the occasional frame for yourself and friends it just isn't up to the demands of semi-professional or professional work in terms of output and accuracy. There's really no dodging the need for the "holy trinity" of the Morso F, Casesse 88, and a top level mat cutter!

[emeraldart]

Like many I started off last year with a power mitre saw, Axminster mitre trimmer,Logan Pro joiner and Logan intermediate matt cuter. Ive recently got a second hand casesse89 underpinner which needs a service but should be much more accurate and efficient. The mitre trimmer gives good results but doesnt have a measuring scale, Often times I glue up and use a belt clamp and pin afterwards, Good results but again a bit slow. The bottom line I think is that while you may get acceptable results with this equipment it takes a long time and a lot of wastage to get a good frane together,The Logan matt cutter is ok but you need time and patience and a good supply of new bladesto get good results. The more I think about it and the more I read the more it points to the big three,Morso, Casesse and top class matt cutter....and maybe a jet mounter. Soner or later we are going to buy these if we want to develop.

[framemaker]

If you are looking to open a new workshop/gallery then I think a Morso is a must. Even for only 5/6 frames a week, the difference in speed and quality is well worth the extra investment. Then I would look at a good underpinner, the foot operated or pneumatic Casesse are popular. As for mount cutters, I used a Keencut Laser for years, they come up on ebay now and then, or even better get a Keencut Artist or Ultimat.

After that if you are looking for other useful equipment then a Keencut System 4000, Excalibur, or Fletcher wall mounted cutter could be a good thing to get for cutting all your boards, backs, and glass.

[Far North Framer]

Thanks all, that's really helpful. Looks like a clear shopping list there. Best start saving now!