Framed

WORDS Dwain Hebda

Allison Sales Custom Framing 7101 Highway 271 South, Fort Smith, AR 479.649.9989 | allisonsalesonline.com

FOR FOUR GENERATIONS, Allison Sales of Fort Smith has flourished in the market as a local purveyor of quality interior supplies, most recently in the flooring and glass space. The company’s latest venture continues that proud legacy as the only independently-owned framing studio in the city.

“The last independent [framing store] was Art of Framing in Van Buren,” says Chase Allison, manager. “They had just shut their doors when we got into shower doors last January. A lot of people that wanted shower doors also wanted mirrors, so we started thinking about framing mirrors. From there, custom framing seemed like a good opportunity. It has been pretty popular.”

Opening the only independent custom-framing shop in the vicinity had its perks. First, Chase says, it helped the three-month-old business stand out. And second, it meant there was some experienced framers to be had in the market who were looking for a change from a chain-store environment.

“We were able to talk to the right people and hire the right people. We were very fortunate,” he says. “In a couple of months, we’ve been able to hire three people who brought about twenty-seven years’ experience.”

Having these professionals on staff is just one thing that sets Allison Sales Custom Framing apart. Another is the close personal interaction between staff and customers, ensuring each project gets the attention to detail it deserves.

“If somebody is needing help in choosing a frame, we have somebody with experience who can help them right away, one-on-one,” Chase says. “We have a nice space that shows off several different frames, pictures, framed canvases, different canvas options, different mirror options. We have, I would say, four hundred-plus different frame samples and maybe one hundred and fifty different mat samples here. So, we’re always giving people a variety of options for their project.”

“I think another big deal about being an independent versus a corporate store is we’re doing everything in-house. You give us your piece of artwork, something that’s sensitive and important to you, one of a kind, whatever, it’s staying here. The work’s being done and given right back to you. You know your stuff’s not going to be shipped and you don’t have to worry about it being damaged or lost or anything like that.”

“We even have an open workshop where it’s like an open kitchen; you can go back there and see everything that’s being done if you like.”