Fillet

Term from Custom Framing industry explained for recruiters

A fillet is a thin, decorative strip or molding used in custom picture framing to create visual separation or add an elegant detail between a picture and its mat, or between multiple mats. It's like a small inner frame that adds a sophisticated finishing touch. Picture framers use fillets to enhance the overall design of framed artwork, create depth, and draw attention to specific colors in the artwork. When you see this term in a resume, it indicates someone has experience with detailed finishing work and understands advanced framing design techniques.

Examples in Resumes

Designed complex framing projects incorporating fillet and double mat techniques

Specialized in using gold and silver fillets to enhance museum-quality frames

Trained junior framers in proper fillet installation and design principles

Typical job title: "Custom Framers"

Also try searching for:

Picture Framer Custom Frame Designer Framing Specialist Frame Shop Technician Conservation Framer Gallery Framer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine when to use a fillet in a framing design?

Expected Answer: A senior framer should discuss evaluating artwork style, customer budget, conservation needs, and explain how fillets can enhance certain types of artwork or solve specific design challenges.

Q: What considerations do you make when pricing a project with fillets?

Expected Answer: Should explain material costs, labor time for precise cutting and fitting, specialty tools needed, and how to communicate the value addition to customers.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the different types of fillets you've worked with?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe various materials (wood, metal, painted), sizes, and applications of fillets, including when to use each type.

Q: How do you properly measure and cut fillets for a complex frame design?

Expected Answer: Should explain the measuring process, cutting techniques, tools used, and common challenges in fillet installation.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a fillet and why is it used in framing?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a fillet is a decorative inner frame element used to enhance the presentation of artwork and create visual separation between elements.

Q: What basic tools are needed for working with fillets?

Expected Answer: Should identify basic tools like measuring devices, cutting equipment, and mounting materials used in fillet installation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic fillet installation
  • Understanding of common fillet materials
  • Simple mat cutting and design
  • Basic frame assembly

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex fillet applications
  • Advanced mat design
  • Customer design consultation
  • Material and cost estimation

Senior (5+ years)

  • Museum-quality framing techniques
  • Conservation framing expertise
  • Advanced design solutions
  • Team training and supervision

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Lack of attention to detail in measuring and cutting
  • No experience with different types of fillets
  • Unable to explain basic design principles
  • Poor understanding of material handling and storage