Frames & Sculpts is a specialist custom framing business based in South Wales, renowned for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. Founded in 2015 and operating full-time since 2021, the business has built a strong reputation for creating bespoke framed displays for sports memorabilia, military artefacts, film collectables and other treasured items. The company is also recognised for its unique handmade clay caricature sculptures, serving customers for a wide range of special occasions.
Through a combination of customer referrals, repeat business and social media engagement, Frames & Sculpts has established an impressive client base that includes Swansea City FC, Ospreys Rugby and several prestigious events companies across the UK.
As demand for its services has grown, the business identified a significant opportunity to expand beyond its traditional face-to-face sales model and develop a stronger national presence through digital channels. To support this ambition, Frames & Sculpts successfully secured funding through the Tata Steel UK Growth Fund, a programme designed to help local businesses adapt, diversify and grow in response to the economic changes affecting the region.
The business submitted a growth-focused application demonstrating how investment in specialist equipment, digital infrastructure and skills development would increase production capacity, expand market reach, create employment opportunities and support long-term sustainability.
The successful application enabled the company to move forward with its ambitious expansion plans.
Video credit: Robert Burke
The investment includes specialist framing and manufacturing equipment, such as a computerised mount-cutting machine, CNC routing technology and large-format printing capability. These technologies will enable the business to produce larger and more intricate framing projects, including wedding dress displays and bespoke memorabilia pieces, while also supporting higher-volume production of new off-the-shelf framing products for sports shirts, medals and honours caps.
Alongside the manufacturing improvements, the business is developing a new e-commerce website designed to showcase its services, support online ordering and increase access to customers beyond South Wales. Enhanced photography, video content and digital marketing activity will further strengthen the Frames & Sculpts brand and help position the company as a leading specialist framer within the UK market.
The expansion also supports diversification into new markets, including premium wedding keepsake framing and scalable product lines aimed at amateur sports clubs, athletes and memorabilia collectors. These additions will complement the existing bespoke offering while creating new opportunities for growth.
As part of its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of workmanship, the business is also investing in professional training to support accreditation through the Fine Art Trade Guild, further enhancing its reputation for quality and craftsmanship.
The project will create two new full-time jobs and safeguard an existing role, ensuring the business has the capacity and skills needed to support future growth. As recruitment progresses, priority will be given to individuals affected by economic changes linked to the Tata Steel transition, helping to retain skills and support employment opportunities within the local area.
By increasing its manufacturing capability, embracing digital technology and expanding into new markets, Frames & Sculpts is creating a strong platform for sustainable growth while continuing to deliver the high-quality, personalised service that has become its hallmark.
This project is supported by the UK Government through the Tata Steel UK Growth Fund.
