Custom Framing & Fine Art Since 1977
Since 1977, The Art Store has offered excellent service & design with our hugh selection, including eco-friendly choices. We can frame everything from photos to posters, original art & prints, fabric art & needlework, mirrors, shadowboxes, collages & more. We offer a payment program for framing or art purchases, plus there is never a charge for estimates. Stop by the shop to see our selection & what we can do for your art or memento.
Keywords: custom framing, picture framing, art, fine art, picture frames, matting, conservation framing, mirrors, shadowboxes
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
The Art Store - Custom Framing & Fine Art, has been providing custom picture framing in Scotts Valley since 1977. After 37 years in Kings Village Shopping Center, in December of 2014 we moved around the corner to 17 Camp Evers Lane.
What is your primary product or service?
We provide Custom Picture Framing for all kinds of art, photographs, posters, prints, needlework, shadowboxes & more, with an extensive selection of frame & mat choices. We do everything from museum quality work to posters in a "simple black frame." We also carry a small selection of ready-made frames & pre-cut mats.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
As an artist I learned to frame my artwork in college. In addition to college, I've studied painting in Mexico & printmaking in Florence, Italy. I began at The Art Store in 1984, working for the previous owner, Bev Sandow, for 17 years. While working for Bev I took the Professional Picture Framers Association's test to become a Certified Picture Framer in 1990. I bought the business from her July 1st, 1999.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
The Santa Cruz area is unusual [what a surprise] not only in having more frame shops per capita than most larger cities, but also how we all work together to help each other. Each of us has our specialties & refer customers to other shops that could do a better job for that particular work. Our specialties beyond the usual, are fabric art, needlework lacing & shadow boxes.
Provide detailed directions to your location
To find us at our new location at 17 Camp Evers Lanes-From Kings Village continue down Mt. Hermon Rd. turn left onto Scotts Valley Dr., then make a U-turn at the next signal [Bean Creek Rd]. Make a right turn into the driveway for Camp Evers & continue to stay to the right along side Maya Mexican Restaurant to turn left into the back parking area. We are located next to the rear of San Lorenzo Floors with easy parking right in front of the shop. No stairs! From Hwy 17 Mt. Hermon exit make a right turn onto Scotts Valley Dr. & follow the above directions for the U-turn at Bean Creek Rd.
What type of payments do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, checks & cash. A 50% Deposit is required for all custom work to cover the cost of materials. We also have payment plans for up to three months for art purchases & custom framing work.
Which areas do you service?
We service Scotts Valley & all of Santa Cruz from Watsonville to Boulder Creek, plus Los Gatos.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
The Art Store is owned & managed by Cynthia Gaskell.
What are your hours of operation?
We are open Monday to Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-5. We are closed Sundays.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
I trust you to choose a frame for me, I know you will make the right choice.
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
"Practice random acts of kindness...."