Our Business...
...Is Our Home
Miter Biter Frame Co. is a family owned custom framing shop located in the heart of downtown Melrose, Massachusetts. We've been crafting high quality custom frames for over 50 years, and our passion for great design and personal service shows in every piece we create.
Since opening our doors in the 1970s, the Halligan family has remained at the helm, building a reputation for craftsmanship, care, and community involvement. We're proud supporters of many local charitable organizations and believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for generations.
In addition to custom framing, we offer professional printing services and a curated selection of unique gift items. Whether you're framing artwork, photos, or memorabilia, we’re here to help you find the perfect solution for your project.
Stop by and see what it’s like to have your art handled by a family of passionate professionals. At Miter Biter, your vision is always in good hands.
Our Family
Jim Halligan
Faith Halligan
Faith Halligan
Jim opened Miter Biter in 1973. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a passionate career of making frames and selling beautiful art! He is well known in the community as being a dedicated and kind contributor to many Melrose causes. Jim has an amazing sense of humor and it comes across in all his endeavors, whether making frames or chatting with customers.
Faith Halligan
Faith Halligan
Faith Halligan
Faith began working with her father back in the 90's. Her dedication to the business is incredible as well as her ability to make sure things run like clockwork! She is your go to lady for sports trivia! Faith will be glad to help you figure out exactly what you need and will do so in a direct and intelligent way! She has over 20 years of experience in the industry and it shows!
What Does "Miter Biter" Mean?
Back in 1973 when the owner, Jim, was just beginning his foray into picture framing, he was investigating the tools of the trade. One of those tools was a device called a foot-chopper (not a very pleasant sounding machine indeed). This piece of equipment is a foot operated behemoth used for cutting perfect 45 degree angles that can then be assembled into a miter joint (i.e. the corner of a frame).
While using his newly acquired product Jim thought to himself, "Gee, this seems to be biting the frame more than actually chopping". An epiphany hit! He would name his new business after this machine, but not its actual name, no, the better, way more creative name he'd come up with... A MITER BITER!
And so that is how our frame shop got its name.
We still use our friendly Miter Biter to this day, although it doesn't see as much action as it used to due to the Miter saws we now have.
From our past, to our present
