At Frame Today, every custom frame has a story behind it—and so does every framer. In this edition of our "Meet Our Expert Framers" blog series, we head to Castle Hill to meet Eloise, a seasoned framing professional whose passion, creativity, and years of experience make her a true master of her craft.
A Framing Career That Started With a Gap Year
Eloise’s journey into picture framing began unexpectedly. At just 18, fresh out of high school and with plans to begin art school the following year, she sought a creative job that would keep her inspired during her gap year. A few days into her very first framing role, she knew she’d found something special. What was intended to be a short break before university became a 15-year-long (and counting) career filled with craftsmanship, growth, and passion.
"I fell in love with the work almost immediately. I was learning new skills every day and working with my hands to make something meaningful. I never looked back."
Before joining Frame Today, Eloise honed her skills with two other framing companies, building experience across a wide range of techniques and tools—from manual to fully automated equipment. This breadth of training, combined with her deep love for interior design, allows Eloise to create framing solutions that are as thoughtful and timeless as the artwork they surround.
Framing With Passion and Purpose
What Eloise enjoys most about framing is the sheer variety. One day she might be mounting a child’s colourful artwork, and the next, handling a priceless artefact for a local museum. The constant challenge and creative freedom keep her inspired.
"I love working with objects. Adding depth, layering backdrops, or even staging mini scenes in shadow boxes—especially for children’s pieces—brings so much joy. Those little creative touches are what make custom framing feel truly special."
Eloise's versatility means she's just as confident framing a jersey or textile as she is a gallery-grade canvas or a piece of fine art. Her real joy, though, is in object framing—transforming everyday items into preserved works of memory and meaning.
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A Brush With a Master
Of all the remarkable works Eloise has framed, one experience stands out: a small but original Rembrandt. The client watched closely as Eloise worked in real time, using meticulous conservation methods and archival materials. The pressure was high, but so was the reward.
"It was an unforgettable experience. Handling something that rare and valuable taught me patience and deepened my respect for the craft. It was a real turning point in my career."
When it comes to challenges, Eloise notes that framing 3D or delicate objects requires inventive thinking. She often uses materials like strong fishing line, Mylar, or even clear silicone to secure medals and other heavy items without damaging them. Silicone, she says, offers stability and reversibility—ideal for preservation.
A Framer With Heart
While skill matters, it's the emotional side of framing that motivates Eloise most. One of her most touching experiences involved reframing a long-treasured photo for a customer. Tucked behind the print, Eloise discovered a handwritten letter from the client’s late husband. With care, she redesigned the frame to display the letter using an acrylic back and double mat, allowing the owner to simply flip the frame to view both.
"She had no idea it was there. When I showed her, there were so many tears. But they were happy tears. That’s the kind of impact framing can have."
She’s also excited to eventually frame one of her most treasured personal items: the book her husband hollowed out to propose to her. It's moments like this—where memory, creativity, and craftsmanship come together—that reinforce her love for the profession.
Looking to the Future
Today, Eloise is not only a trusted expert managing our Castle Hill store but also a mentor in the making. She hopes to grow her leadership skills and help train the next generation of skilled framers.
Her advice for customers?
"Don’t wait too long to frame something important. Old folders, cardboard, or cheap frames can damage what you love. Get it preserved right, and you'll thank yourself every time you look at it."
Why Customers Love Eloise’s Work
It’s not just her talent that makes Eloise special—it’s her empathy, creativity, and deep understanding of how framing connects people to their memories. Customers at Castle Hill regularly return to work with Eloise again and again, not just because of her skill, but because of the care and passion she brings to every frame.
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Whether she’s framing a priceless artwork or a child’s first drawing, Eloise approaches every project with equal enthusiasm. Her goal? To make sure each frame preserves the story within—beautifully, professionally, and with passion.
Need expert advice for your next framing project? Visit Eloise and the team at Frame Today Castle Hill.
