Excellence in workmanship and design

Tucked away on Overpass Road, just off of Patterson Avenue between Terra Sol nursery and the Humane Society, is Parameters Custom Framing, Santa Barbara's newest frame shop. But don't be fooled by the fact that it has only been open since August 2003. The owner, Michael Mead, learned the craft of custom framing in 1980 when he worked for a national framing company. In 1985, he came to Santa Barbara to attend Brooks Institute of Photography. After finishing Brooks, Michael opened a gallery on State Street, which flourished until 1995. He then managed the framing department at Craft Village until 2003, when the owners decided to retire.

In August 2003, Parameters Custom Framing opened its doors. Julie Colyer, the assistant manager, brings another eight years of framing experience, making Parameters one of the most experienced frame shops in Santa Barbara. With so much experience, Parameters offers design skills unmatched in Santa Barbara, with customer service second to none. Thousands of frame samples from the best companies in the country line the walls of the design room, with hundreds of choices in mats to complement your artwork.

The staff at Parameters can frame almost anything imaginable, from sports jerseys and first communion dresses, to objects such as medals, spoons, plates or antique kimonos. Whether it's a Picasso or your child's own masterpiece, the staff at Parameters will take the utmost care to ensure the design is perfect, the workmanship excellent, and that your order is finished on budget and on time. With more than 30 years of combined experience, Parameters will ensure your masterpiece is framed beautifully.

In addition, if you need a mat or a piece of glass cut, Parameters will cut it while you wait. Mirrors, both beveled and flat, can be ordered and framed in any of the frames in the shop. Dry mounting and shrink-wrapping are also available, and all work is done on the premises. All materials used are conservation quality, to ensure your artwork is protected for years to come.

Parameters Custom Framing is located at 5350 Overpass Road. Take the Patterson exit, turn towards Hollister, and turn right at the first light, which is Overpass Road.