When I was a kid living in New Mexico, my mom bought a piece of art from a man in Old Town Albuquerque. I remember her buying it with such pride and then taking it to get framed- it was the first time I realized people valued art in that way. She kept it all these years, and just three years ago it came to me. Recently I brought it to The Custom Framer in Highland Park to be re-matted and reframed. From the moment I walked in, I felt comfortable asking questions, even with my lack of design knowledge. The process was thoughtful, supportive, and deeply meaningful. This isn't just about framing art--it's about framing memories. I'll treasure this piece in my home and someday pass it to my kids. Highly recommend. read more

Due to a problem with mobility, I could not come into the shop, relying on the guidance of Debb and the staff for guidance and suggestions. The piece they were framing was an original calligraphy artwork. Debb sent me photos of how it might be framed, suggesting a stunning double-matte of a gold inner matte with a burgundy top matte in an antiqued gold carved frame. In addition to building the frame and all that entails, the shop finished the piece in record time. Numerous emails went back and forth and their patience and professionalism was beyond expectation. Debb and her team made me feel as I was their most valued customer. A thousand, thousand thanks! Mary Delaney read more

This place is the best for framing they have everything you could want and the service to match. They do everything well and the success to prove it thank you for all you do! read more

Rachel is the best! She has a great eye and is super helpful, patient and friendly :) Rachel takes her time and works with you to achieve just the perfect look you were going for to complete your masterpiece The Custom Framer has a wide range of options, with something for everyone :) I've used other framing shops before, but now this is the only shop I'll use. High quality framing and Rachel really cares about your finished product :) Framing definitely makes a difference! read more

Amazing selection, great staff and very knowledgeable! Frames and art are really nice!

Great service and efficiency!!! Wonderful advice, helpfulness, communications, and artistry. We are very happy customers!

The Custom Framer has just changed ownership but that is the only thing that has changed. Their customer service and framing is just as good as it has always been. From helping us choose the right color border and frame to the finished product, everything was top-notch. One thing we were having framed was a 7-year-old concert t-shirt that was VERY important to my son, who is a musician. He was adamant in how he wanted it framed and although they suggested something different, they saw how important it was to him to have it framed his way and immediately agreed with him. When we picked it up he was thrilled -- and now when he has someone new come to his apartment it is the first thing they see when they walk through the door. I recommend The Custom Framer to everyone! read more

I used to go to this place when it was in the Ravinia area of HP. They know what they are doing here. The owner has a knack for helping pick the right frame. It's high quality work... But you do pay a bit more. I've never been disappointed. They moved to an obscure location on old Skokie Road in HP. When you have a nice piece of work you need framed, do it here! read more

I got the name of this place from the antique map store in Evanston, and was not disappointed. The owner has excellent taste and really knows how to make your piece look its best. There's a great range of choices from decorative (but still acid-free) to museum-quality archival materials. Pricing is fair given the quality of the work and that it's custom. I've already recommended this place to friends, and am making a mental list of more pieces to bring by. The only con is the location, which is a little tricky to get to. However, there's plenty of parking, which helps. A note for those with allergies, there's a (very quiet, low-key) dog in the store. Will definitely come again! read more

The Custom Framer has framed nearly everything in my house. They provide first class advice about choosing the correct frame for every item. I have never been disappointed. I wish they were only Saturday morning, but I as a business owner myself I understand. read more

I've worked with Charlie Barnes for over 25 years and for as long as I've known him and his staff, their work has been of the highest quality. With an artistic flair for what works, this framing company will recommend frames that will wonderfully complement your artwork for years to come. read more

There are many wonderful objects of art in all mediums that are interesting to see and are for sale. As for the framing of art work every employee has numerous ideas as to what is interesting for the art work in consideration for framing.. Terrific staff and selection. read more

Wonderful place. Very talented people to help you decide on your framing. Very good cost & quality products. I wouldn't go anywhere else

I strongly recommend The Custom Framer over any other framer on the North Shore or the Northside. Charlie and his staff have framed for me a large number of challenging multi-picture autographed photos and art over 30 some years! Every time my expectations are exceeded. The Custom Framer introduced me to Museum Glass, the latest in framing materials, how to frame aluminum photos with stunning results, and other options as they come into the framing world. I'm a tough guy to please. Yet there is always sharing of good ideas when I come in to make the end result so special. Nobody does it better. NOBODY. read more

Been in Highland Park for nearly 10 years and have never stumbled upon this hidden treasure until recently. I thought it would be your typical framing place, but it was so much more. Really great jewelry, art, crafts and great off-beat finds for anyone who likes something different. Good prices on framing and lots of friendly staff to help out. Plus, a 70% off sale that was, quite frankly, a steal. I highly recommend.... read more