Business Details
50 Years
experience
Custom Framing & Art Supplies in Birmingham, AL
Since 1976, Forstall Art Center has been a family-owned destination for artists and collectors in Birmingham, AL. Our team combines decades of expertise with museum-quality craftsmanship to preserve and enhance cherished artwork. With Ray Diamant, a master framer since 1966, and Phillip Forstall, owner and framer since 1993, we deliver personalized service using archival materials. Our custom framing solutions accommodate diverse items, from photographs to sports memorabilia, while our retail space offers premium art supplies and tools. We maintain a curated selection of over 1,000 moldings and mats, ensuring each client finds the perfect complement to their piece.Our commitment to quality extends to our kiln sales and pottery equipment, serving local artisans with specialized tools. Open six days a week, we prioritize convenience with flexible hours and accessible parking. Every project is handled by skilled artisans who ensure meticulous attention to detail from consultation to completion. Our partnerships with local galleries and artists reinforce our role as a community hub for creative expression. By blending tradition with innovation, we continue to provide trusted services that meet evolving artistic needs.
Services
Custom Framing
Art Classes
Art Supplies
Kiln Sales
Gift Cards
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1976 with generational framing expertise
- Master framers using museum-quality archival materials
- 1,000+ frame and matting options for personalized designs
- Comprehensive selection of professional art supplies
- Convenient parking and accessible store layout
What people say
Exceptional craftsmanship
Vast frame selection
Helpful staff
Quality art supplies
Services
Custom Framing
Our custom framing service preserves and enhances artwork using archival materials. Clients choose from 1,000+ moldings and mats for personalized designs. Expert framers handle photographs, diplomas, sports memorabilia, and three-dimensional objects with precision.
Art Classes
We offer structured art classes for all skill levels in Birmingham. Courses cover painting, drawing, and mixed media techniques using professional-grade supplies. Instructors provide personalized guidance to develop artistic abilities in a supportive environment.
Art Supplies
Our retail store stocks premium art supplies including paints, canvases, and specialty tools. From student-grade basics to professional materials like Caran d'Ache products, we cater to diverse artistic needs with curated selections for painters and crafters.
Kiln Sales
We provide Olympic kilns and pottery wheels for ceramic artists. Equipment ranges from entry-level Speedball wheels to industrial kilns with temperature control systems. Our inventory supports both hobbyists and professional ceramic studios.
Gift Cards
Gift cards offer flexible options for artists and crafters. Recipients choose from framing services, art classes, or retail products. Digital and physical card options provide convenient gifting for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
People
Phillip Forstall
Owner/Framer
Phillip Forstall has specialized in custom framing since 1993. He oversees daily operations while providing hands-on framing expertise. His commitment to quality ensures each project meets exacting standards.
Ray Diamant
Master Framer
With framing experience since 1966, Ray Diamant brings decades of expertise to complex projects. His technical knowledge of archival methods guarantees long-term preservation of valuable artwork.
Rose Reyes
Framer
Rose Reyes contributes skilled craftsmanship to custom framing projects. She assists clients in selecting appropriate materials while ensuring precise execution of design specifications.
Kaitlyn Avery
Framer
Kaitlyn Avery supports the framing team with attention to detail. She helps maintain workflow efficiency while delivering quality service to customers seeking professional presentation solutions.
Questions
What custom framing services do you offer?
We frame artwork, photographs, diplomas, sports memorabilia, and three-dimensional objects using archival materials. Our 1,000+ moldings ensure personalized design options.
Are art classes available for all skill levels?
Yes, we offer classes for beginners through advanced artists covering painting, drawing, and mixed media techniques with professional instruction.
What art supplies do you stock?
Our inventory includes paints, canvases, brushes, and specialty tools from brands like Golden, Faber-Castell, and Caran d'Ache for various artistic disciplines.
What are your store hours?
We're open Monday-Friday 10 AM-5 PM and Saturday 10 AM-4 PM. Closed Sundays and major holidays.
Do you sell pottery equipment?
Yes, we offer Olympic kilns and Speedball pottery wheels with technical support for ceramic artists and studios.