Are any artists aware of businesses renting the use of framing equipment such as mat cutters, glass cutters, miter saws, underpinners, etc? I'm specifically referring to renting time by the hour at someone's shop or framing facility. As a photographer I know there have been darkroom and photo studio rental services for years, but I'm unfamiliar with the same option for framing services.
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The local molding wholesaler where I buy my glass lets me use their Fletcher cutter to cut it down to size. They are willing to cut it for me at $2 a lite, but it's quicker for me to cut on demand. But I have to cut a box at a time. I don't have a way to cut down the chipped castoffs to recycle the larger pieces either.
I don't buy chops because I don't have access to an accurate chop saw. (I don't consider my Rigid accurate enough).
That is an interesting idea. Although we have let an artist use some of our tables and perhaps a point gun we could not rent the equipment since ours is mostly high end computerized stuff and I am sure I would not want to worry about injuries.
I am friends with a number of custom frame shop owners and have not heard of them renting equipment. Your best bet might be to check into workshops, tradeschools or galleries that are composed of a collective of artists.
The custom frame industry has slowed down a lot over the last few years. That combined with the big box stores has put a lot of custom frame shops out of business. You might just look into getting some used equipment. I have saved 10's of thousands of dollars on equipment from larger shops going out of business. I have a double mitre saw sitting in storage that I recently bought because I got such a great deal on it. It may be months before I actually need to start using it.
Mark
Frame Destination, Inc.
I have never heard of such a thing. With all the things that can put a mat cutter out of whack I would be surprised if anyone would just lease out their equipment. Good luck with your search.
Yes, that's a good point. Though with all the tools I've rented through Home Depot over the years I know there's always deposits taken to insure things get returned in working order. And no doubt the steep hourly rental rate more than compensates for any increased depreciation caused by user neglect. That said, you're right it may be hard to find someone willing to offer this service.