When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
The Framer's Workshop
Why The Framer's Workshop is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located in Berkeley, California, The Framer's Workshop is a women-owned business celebrated for its exceptional custom framing services, art restoration, and printing solutions. This distinctive workshop stands out for its dedication to quality craftsmanship and personalized customer experiences, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends who appreciate art and design. Whether you're bringing a cherished piece in need of expert framing or embarking on a DIY project, the staff’s knowledgeable and friendly approach ensures a satisfying and creative process. The workshop offers a wide variety of frames, mats, and materials customizable to fit different styles and budgets. Adding to its welcoming atmosphere, The Framer’s Workshop is wheelchair accessible, dog-friendly, and provides convenient garage parking and bike parking options. The acceptance of multiple payment methods including credit cards and Apple Pay, plus a commitment to accessibility, underscores its customer-first ethos. Its focus on detail and bespoke service makes it not just a framing shop, but a community hub for art lovers and those seeking to preserve treasured memories in the East Bay area.
Here's what people think of The Framer's Workshop
As of recent, The Framer's Workshop holds a 4.5-star rating based on 40 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Framer’s Workshop consistently highlight the exceptional quality of craftsmanship and the highly attentive service provided by the staff. Many reviewers praise the team’s expert advice in selecting frames and mats that perfectly complement their artwork, emphasizing the workshop’s commitment to personalized care and customer satisfaction. Positive reviews often mention the friendly atmosphere, the helpfulness of the knowledgeable employees, and the seamless collaboration throughout the framing or restoration process. Customers also appreciate the convenient amenities such as garage parking, accessibility, and flexible payment options. On the other hand, negative feedback, while relatively rare given the high rating, occasionally points to longer wait times during peak periods or the pricing being on the higher side, reflective of the high-quality materials and expert workmanship. In summary, The Framer’s Workshop enjoys a strong reputation for combining artistic skill, customization, and excellent service — making it a trusted destination for those in need of top-tier framing and restoration services in Berkeley.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Claudia Cordero & Max Carroll
We had our Ketubah framed here and are so incredibly happy with how it turned out. We wanted to find a way to frame the glass pieces we stepped on during our wedding ceremony but weren’t sure if that was possible or how to do it. Jenette was the mastermind in designing the shadowbox to showcase the glass pieces. She took the time to incorporate our wishes but also gave great suggestions based on her knowledge and expertise. The final design came out so much better than we could have ever imagined. Thank you Jenette and team for taking such good care of a very special and sentimental item for us!!!
Brijhette Farmer
I would give 10 stars if I could! The staff exhibited phenomenal attention to detail, creativity, and genuine kindness. I came in on a Saturday afternoon with plans to get a very simple frame for a print that was in a yellowing plastic jacket. My expectations were knocked out of the park. The framing specialists were so sweet, conversational, and patient. I don't know the gentleman's name who helped me (pictured below) but he was awesome. I am very pleased with the result and will be back!
Melanie Muñoz
They did a wonderful job framing my wedding pictures. Plus, they let me know of various options so I could pick what fit my budget and the look I wanted. The staff was incredibly nice, like you were visiting family and they helped you get the work done. Awesome experience, and will definitely come back!
Randie Bradley
This is my favorite framing shop. Lee does outstanding work and goes the extra mile to be sure you are pleased with your finished artwork. I highly recommend the shop.
Harini Iyer
I can't thank Framer's Workshop, particularly Mike, enough for the absolutely fantastic job they did with my digit print enhancement request. I wanted an image from a book enlarged, enhanced, and printed. Mike went above and beyond: he did a reverse Google search, found a better quality image, and thoughtfully printed the image to a size for which standard store-bought frames are available. He sent me updates every step of the way and made sure I received the best possible final product. More importantly, my friend, whom the gift was meant for, absolutely loved the spectacular job Mike did. We are very grateful for the personalized and exceptional service and will certainly use Framer's Workshop again for our future printing needs.
How to reach The Framer's Workshop
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Why The Framer's Workshop may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Framer's Workshop with your friends? Because it’s not just a framing shop—it's a vibrant, creative haven where friends and family can gather to celebrate artistry, memories, and collaboration. Nestled in the heart of Berkeley, The Framer's Workshop has been a cherished local tradition since 1977, known for its personalized attention, quality craftsmanship, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re coming with a group to frame a collective art project, preserve cherished keepsakes, or simply explore your creative side, this unique venue provides a relaxed and inspiring setting. The workshop fosters a shared experience that goes beyond typical meetups—offering meaningful opportunities to bond over creativity and transformation. Plus, it’s conveniently located with free parking for the first hour, making it easy for your group to stop by without hassle. If you want to engage in a rewarding activity in a friendly, community-oriented environment, The Framer’s Workshop is tailor-made for memorable hangouts with your favorite people.
What types of activities can you do at The Framer's Workshop?
The core activity at The Framer’s Workshop is, of course, custom picture framing, but the experience expands far beyond just framing. The workshop offers an opportunity to bring in art, photos, keepsakes, or collectibles that are meaningful to you and your friends. Together, you can engage in selecting the perfect frame styles, mats, and materials that best highlight your treasured items. This hands-on involvement creates a collaborative and interactive experience where everyone can share opinions and ideas. Plus, the use of high-quality, conservation-grade materials means you’re not only creating striking displays but preserving memories for the long term. The skilled team provides expert guidance, helping your group understand framing techniques and design principles, which makes it educational and fun. These shared moments of design and decision-making add a creative layer to your gathering that typical venues can’t replicate.
Besides framing, the workshop serves as a hub where you can learn the art of frame design itself. Small group workshops or demo sessions might be available occasionally, making it perfect for those who want to deepen their artistic skills in a casual setting. Your meetup can transform into a creative workshop, sparking inspiration as you learn about framing’s nuances—from color matching to selecting textures. This educational aspect enhances the social experience, providing a unique blend of artistry and camaraderie. Because the shop is family-owned and has decades of experience, the environment is friendly, inviting, and honest—perfect for both beginners and those familiar with art framing. The overall vibe supports connection—friends and family leave not just with framed treasures but with memories of working together creatively.
Why is The Framer’s Workshop perfect for group meetups?
The Framer’s Workshop’s atmosphere fosters both creativity and connection, which makes it ideal for hosting group meetups. Unlike noisy bars or crowded restaurants, the workshop offers a calm, peaceful environment where conversation, collaboration, and artistic exploration flow naturally. Its location on the ground floor of the Channing-Telegraph parking garage in Berkeley comes with convenient first-hour free parking, easing concerns about logistics that often complicate group outings. This accessibility means your friends and family can arrive and leave comfortably without the stress of finding expensive or distant parking. The intimate size and warm vibe of the shop also allow for personalized service—your group won’t feel rushed or overlooked. Staff members tend to know many customers by name and are happy to help each person feel involved—breathing life into the notion that every frame tells a story.
Furthermore, gathering at The Framer’s Workshop implies a shared creative project, which naturally bonds groups more than passive activities do. Unlike typical meetups where the focus may be on eating or drinking, here your group shares the joy of crafting something together—whether assisting a friend with framing an heirloom, choosing a frame for a group photo, or learning about artwork preservation. This tangible goal encourages conversation and interaction that builds lasting memories. The range of framing options supports varied interests, accommodating diverse tastes in frame design that make everyone feel heard and valued. Beyond that, the workshop’s embrace of preservation celebrates personal histories, so your session together becomes a celebration of what you cherish as a group.
How accessible and convenient is The Framer’s Workshop for groups?
Accessibility at The Framer’s Workshop is a strong advantage for group meetups. The shop’s prime Berkeley location at 2439 Channing Way places it in a well-known, easy-to-find spot right on the ground floor of the Channing-Telegraph parking garage. The convenience of having free parking for the first hour eliminates a common barrier for groups who might otherwise be deterred by the hassle or cost of parking in busy urban areas. While parking restrictions do apply on Cal game days, for most occasions your group can arrive smoothly and settle in quickly. This practical aspect reduces stress for organizers and attendees alike, making the planning process less complicated. Additionally, the shop is staffed by a small, knowledgeable team who tailor their service to customers’ needs, ensuring your group feels personally welcomed and supported.
The welcoming ambiance is complemented by hours scheduled to accommodate various lifestyles, open from Tuesday through Saturday—with extended hours during weekdays—giving plenty of opportunities for groups to arrange meetups at their convenience. This flexibility is invaluable when trying to fit creative time around busy schedules. Inside, the studio is designed for intimate gatherings, allowing groups to move around comfortably without feeling crowded. Unlike larger commercial venues, the shop maintains a calm, focused environment perfect for both socializing and unhurried creativity. This balance of accessibility, comfort, and personalized service makes The Framer’s Workshop not only a smart choice but genuinely enjoyable for group meetups.
What makes the framing experience at The Framer’s Workshop unique?
The framing experience at The Framer’s Workshop stands out for its deep commitment to quality and storytelling. Since 1977, this family-owned business has prided itself on treating every framing project as a unique narrative, where each frame is carefully crafted to complement the story behind the artwork or keepsake. This personalized philosophy transforms the framing process from a routine service into a meaningful ritual—one that your group can appreciate and engage in collectively. Unlike mass-produced framing options, The Framer’s Workshop uses conservation framing materials that protect items from damage over time, underscoring the shop’s dedication to preserving memories as art. This attention to detail and care ensures that the final product is not only beautiful but enduring.
Working with a trusted team that brings decades of expertise means your group receives thoughtful, tailored advice, ensuring frames are custom-fit to both the object and the owner’s style. This collaborative decision-making invites everyone to participate actively, making the activity more interactive and inclusive. The process also encourages discussions about design elements—such as frame color, texture, and matting—that enhance the visual appeal in ways your group can appreciate together. By turning framing into a shared, artistic endeavor, The Framer’s Workshop offers more than service; it offers an enriching experience that blends aesthetics, preservation, and personal connection. This uniqueness is what draws locals and visitors alike to choose the shop as a venue for memorable art-centered gatherings.
Can The Framer’s Workshop host special events or workshops for groups?
While primarily a custom framing shop, The Framer’s Workshop has the capacity and atmosphere to support special group events or workshops under the right arrangements. Given its established presence in the Berkeley community and its family-run nature, the space can be a cozy venue for arts-focused meetups such as framing tutorials, small art classes, or private creative sessions. These opportunities would suit groups interested in learning the craft of framing first-hand or creating personalized art projects together. Hosting an event here could provide a unique alternative to conventional meetup spaces, blending education with social engagement. The staff’s expertise and personal approach make them excellent facilitators or guides for such activities, ensuring that groups receive hands-on, clear instructions in a friendly setting.
While not a large-scale event space, the workshop’s manageable size fosters intimate gatherings that emphasize quality interactions over quantity. This makes it ideal for small to medium-sized groups who value personalized attention and want to deepen their creative skills in a supportive environment. If you wish to organize a special event, it’s advisable to contact the shop in advance to coordinate availability and tailor the experience for your specific group needs. Such an event would not only strengthen friendships through shared learning but leave participants with tangible handmade or framed treasures that embody the day’s creativity. This potential expands what The Framer’s Workshop can offer as a venue well beyond traditional retail framing.
With its blend of artistic expertise, friendly customer service, accessible location, and unique creative focus, The Framer’s Workshop offers an unparalleled environment for friends and family to come together. Hosting a meetup here means more than just assembling a group—it’s committing to a memorable, hands-on experience that celebrates art, preservation, and meaningful connection. If your goal is to rally your loved ones around creativity in a welcoming, skill-enriching space, The Framer’s Workshop is an exceptional choice that will inspire and delight all who visit.