Picture Frames, Frame Shop, Custom Mirrors – Tradition and Modern Craft
Creating picture frames and mirrors is a craft that combines precision, experience, and a refined sense of aesthetics. In my workshop, I produce custom picture frames and mirrors made to measure, handcrafted from the raw moulding through substrate preparation to the final finish. This combination of traditional woodworking and gilding techniques with a contemporary design approach ensures that every piece is unique and timeless.
If you are looking for a place where quality, individuality, and distinctive style truly matter, a frame shop rooted in craftsmanship is the right choice.
Why Choose Custom Frames and Mirrors?
Uniqueness and an Individual Approach
Every project is treated individually. Frames and mirrors are not mass-produced products—they are created for a specific artwork, interior, and set of expectations. This guarantees a final result that is truly one of a kind.
When selecting a frame for an artwork, you are not limited to choosing an existing profile. The moulding itself can be modified while still raw, before finishing. In many cases, profiles are built from interchangeable segments that can be combined, widened, or adjusted—especially in flat sections of the moulding.
In addition to selecting the gold tone—from cool, silver-like 6-carat gold to warm 23-carat yellow gold—you can also choose the colour of the clay (bole) beneath the gilding, which subtly influences the final hue of the gold surface.
Traditional Craft Combined with Contemporary Design
My work is based on classical woodworking methods and traditional gilding, while the designs themselves fit seamlessly into modern interiors. Frames are joined using wooden mortise joints, and gilding is carried out using centuries-old techniques and historical tools that remain irreplaceable to this day.
The use of genuine gold leaf and proven methods results in a product that can last for hundreds of years—making it not only a visual statement but also a long-term investment.
Gold, thanks to its physical properties and hardness, can be gently burnished and worn back to reveal subtle tonal variations created by the coloured clay beneath it. These nuances have a significant impact on how an artwork is perceived.
This is a balance between history and modernity.
Picture Frames – The Perfect Setting for Your Art
The Role of the Frame in Protecting and Presenting Artwork
A well-chosen frame does more than protect a painting, print, or photograph—it enhances its character. Proportions, colour, and style can completely transform how a work is perceived.
Handcrafted Quality and Attention to Detail
Every frame is made by hand from natural wood, with close attention paid to every detail. These details determine durability, aesthetics, and the overall prestige of the finished piece.
Mortise joinery strengthens the frame and prevents warping. Executing this process before finishing allows for perfectly aligned corners that are nearly invisible.
The wood used for framing is selected not only by species but also by specific batches, ensuring the highest quality and stability. Each stage—from material selection and hand sanding to final finishing—is subject to strict quality control.
As a result, the frames not only look exceptional but also retain their form and beauty for many years, enhancing the value of the artwork they surround.
Frame Shop – Wide Selection and Full Customisation
Wooden Frames – Timeless and Versatile
Wooden frames are a timeless solution. Natural materials complement both classical paintings and contemporary graphics.
Wood is durable, ecological, and locally sourced from certified suppliers. Depending on the frame type and finish, available species include limewood, pine, oak, and American walnut.
Oak, valued for its hardness, pronounced grain, and deep colour, is particularly well suited to French polish and wax finishes. Pine, light and bright, works beautifully for posters and photographs. American walnut stands out for its rich colour and strength, making it ideal for elegant, high-end frames.
Wood is also easily restorable, allowing frames to serve for generations. Each species lends a unique character, making it possible to match the frame perfectly to both artwork and interior.
Gilded and Decorative Frames – For Lovers of Luxury
Gold frames are made using genuine gold leaf. They are intended for those who value elegance, prestige, and noble finishes.
Gold leaf is available in many tones—from silver-like 6-carat, through 12-carat, 22-carat moon gold, to 23-carat double-beaten ducat gold. I also offer frames finished in silver and palladium, allowing for unique solutions suited to both classical and contemporary works.
Each frame is finished entirely by hand, ensuring visual depth, durability, and long-term value.
You can explore custom gilded frames and partially painted designs to see the full range of possibilities.
Modern and Minimalist Frames – For Contemporary Interiors
Modern, minimalist frames are defined by clean forms, geometric profiles, and restrained colours. They do not dominate the artwork but subtly support it, allowing the composition to speak for itself.
I offer a wide range of profiles and finishes—from white and grey to deep black and natural wood. These frames are ideal for modern homes, offices, galleries, and hotels, where elegance and versatility are essential.
Vintage and Distressed Frames – Retro Style and Noble Character
Vintage and distressed frames are created using traditional ageing, patination, and rubbing techniques. Each frame is finished by hand, ensuring that no two pieces are ever identical.
These frames beautifully complement old photographs, family heirlooms, and classical artworks, introducing a sense of history and refined nostalgia. You can choose the level of ageing, type of patina, and even combine vintage effects with gilding or natural wood.
Frames for Canvas, Photographs, and Posters
I create frames for canvas paintings, photographs, and posters—always tailored to the format and character of the work. Both standard and non-standard sizes are available.
Frames can be minimalist, classic, or decorative, with finishes chosen to suit the artwork and interior. Proper framing enhances visual impact, protects the work, and gives it a professional presentation.
How to Order a Custom Frame
Ordering a custom frame is simple and fully supported at every stage—from measurements and configuration to final delivery. All frames are carefully packed and shipped securely.
Step-by-step:
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Measure your artwork precisely (to 0.1 cm).
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Select parameters in the configurator: rabbet depth, finish, gold tone, bole colour.
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Consider where the artwork will be displayed.
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Enter dimensions into the calculator (a standard technical allowance of approx. 3 mm is included).
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Add the product to your cart.
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For oversized or special requests, contact me directly.
Pricing is calculated automatically based on perimeter and selected options, making the process fast and transparent.
Custom Mirrors – Functionality and Aesthetics
I create bespoke mirrors for bathrooms, hallways, living rooms, wardrobes, and bedrooms. Shapes include rectangular, round, oval, and custom forms, with options such as bevelled edges and safety glass.
Each mirror is framed to suit both the room’s conditions and its style—from minimalist to richly decorated, gilded, or distressed designs.
Bathroom Mirrors
Moisture-resistant glass and finishes designed for bathroom environments.
Hallway Mirrors
Frames that visually enlarge and brighten the space while adding a representative character.
Living Room Mirrors
Large decorative or gilded mirrors often serve as the focal point of the interior.
Glamour Mirrors
For those who appreciate striking, reflective finishes and luxurious visual impact.
Personalisation and Finishing Techniques
Every mirror is made to order—from dimensions to finishing details. Classical mirror frames combine tradition with refined form, creating timeless elegance.
Exclusive Craft Techniques
I use traditional water gilding on bole, patination, and controlled ageing—methods that require experience and are increasingly rare. These techniques give each frame depth, tonal richness, and lasting value.
Mortise joinery, hand processing, and natural substrates ensure durability and perfectly finished corners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I order a custom frame?
Simply contact me. I will guide you through measurements, style selection, and prepare an individual design and quote.
Can you help me choose the right frame?
Yes. You may send a photo of the artwork or interior, and I will suggest suitable options. Visual mock-ups are also available.
What customisation options are available?
Profile width, wood type, colour, finish (matte, gloss, patina, gilding), and ageing level.
How long does production take?
Typically 15–30 business days, depending on complexity.
Do you handle special or unusual projects?
Yes—custom concepts are welcome.
Contact – Personal Advice and Custom Projects
Have questions or want to discuss a project?
Feel free to get in touch—your first consultation is completely non-binding.
Email: karol@karolmilewski.com
Phone: +48 533 275 000
Responses within 24 hours.
