The 12 Functions of Framing – Part 4 of 4
In this final part of the 12 Functions of Framing, we’re going to look at the types of materials best used in frames. In part 4, we’ll also touch on hand finishes and framing memorabilia, such as rugby shirts.
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Materials
Although we display and stock over 250 popular frame designs, over 3000 designs are available from our principle suppliers usually at short notice (within 3 working days) and can be selected from our catalogues. For important works where the finish or colour is important we can obtain sample pieces within a few days.
Our range of mount boards exceed the minimum standards appropriate for each level of framing. The preservation as well as the presentation of your artwork is of considerable importance to us and we will guide you on the best selection of quality appropriate to your artwork.
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Hand Finishes
Few framers have the skills or willingness to offer the comprehensive range of hand finishes. Our range of plain (bare-faced) natural wood mouldings – oak, beech, ash and maple, look good with just a wax finish, whilst we can also stain and/or lime wax ash and oak to bring out the grain. These as well as obeche and ramin can be painted with any design or style you wish, matching the room’s decor.
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Memorabilia
Many forms of artwork look their best if dry mounted onto a rigid supporting medium, especially photographs, posters and work which may be creased or cockled. For this purpose, we use a heat activated vacuum bonding press. Although it is possible to reverse dry mounting, archival or original works should not be dry mounted without considering the long-term implications for the artwork.
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Assembly
Our attention to detail in assembly methods and the appearance of your artwork is of the utmost importance to us. Therefore, if we are in any doubt over your selection of frame or mount while your artwork is in our process, we will call you to review the situation. Further, we encourage the use of conservation level framing. In this way, we ensure your picture is correctly assembled and offered the best level of protection.
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Standards
Our skills and services are wide ranging, including framing up to museum level if the artwork warrants this. We can frame pretty much anything including memorabilia, medals, coins, needlework, textiles, tapestries, and fabrics, oils on board or canvas, photographs, watercolours, charcoals, and pastels.
There are five levels of picture framing which use different qualities of materials and framing techniques.
As this affects the cost and, more importantly, the level of protection and conservation for the artwork, a brief description of each is given below for your guidance.
Minimum– Framing to a minimum quality and budget and is only suitable for low-value items. We do not recommend framing at this level.
Budget Framing– This is for the budget conscious using basic grade material but is not recommended for any items of value.
Commended– Framing for items of moderate commercial or sentimental value but using “standard” material – this is an acceptable method.
Conservation– This is our preferred level of workmanship (as all techniques are reversible) and uses conservation grade material to protect the artwork.
Museum– This is the highest quality level of framing and uses expensive high grade inert and filtered materiel for lifetime protection and image quality.
For more framing advice, contact us or visit the Fine Art Trade Guild website: www.fineart.co.uk
If you are based in Edinburgh and have something special to frame, why not book an appointment to discover more about the options available to you?
