We support bicycle framebuilders through resources, supplies, and education.
And we're just getting warmed up.
Firsthand Framebuilding is a new venture, currently building momentum in Portland, Oregon. Our aim is to be the highest-quality retailer of framebuilding materials and supplies around. In addition, we're developing a unique, 10,000 sq. ft. bicycle framebuilding "hub" here in Portland, due to open in 2026. Follow along to stay in the loop about our plans.
Only The Best
The best bicycles deserve to be made with the finest materials. And the finest materials deserve the highest quality tools. Firsthand Framebuilding is committed to offering only best-in-class materials and supplies from quality-driven manufacturers.
Who We Are
Chris Blandford
Owner & Floor Sweeper
Chris has been building bikes in various capacities for several years, most recently under his own brand, Blandford Bicycles. Firsthand is his attempt to do something truly meaningful and long-lasting in framebuilding. When he's not sorting tubes or testing new brazing supplies, Chris can be found chasing his daughter around the ski slopes on Oregon's Mt. Hood.
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chris@firsthand.bike
2025 Midsummer Updates
A visit to the Reynolds factory in England, plus a MADE Last Call and some product hightlights.
May Shop Updates
More tools and supplies! New products from Pferd, Wilpu, Gasflux, and more now in the shop.
LOOK: Retail Principles, Part 1
Firsthand LOOK is a series of longer articles written about our business practices here in the Firsthand shop. Up first: a summary of our retail goals and principles.