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Newbie Advice on “Pie Crust” and “Batwing” for MP?

Posted: Tue 12 Feb, 2019 4:58 am
by MaxfieldDreamer
Greetings you professionals!

I joined this forum for a single purpose. My wife and I have collected more great Maxfield Parrish prints, than we have great antique frames to go with them. I would very much like to learn how to add those old “pie crust” and/or “batwing” accents to more basic frames, but I am stunned at the lack of information online—whether it be on Youtube or books or any kind of instruction. Im assuming the gesso would be the medium, but I am just starting this learning process.

So. Any books, videos, classes, tips, or ideas would be greatly appreciated! I will try to attach an image or two of what I want to learn to do (for personal use only, nothing commercial).

https://www.dropbox.com/s/kt30pfqfhg111 ... t.jpg?dl=0

Re: Newbie Advice on “Pie Crust” and “Batwing” for MP?

Posted: Tue 12 Feb, 2019 9:44 am
by David McCormack
Pie Crust and Batwing for MP..... sounds like the contents of Jacob Rees-Mogg's lunchbox :shock:

Welcome to the forum :handshake:

You should also ask on The Grumble :D

Re: Newbie Advice on “Pie Crust” and “Batwing” for MP?

Posted: Tue 12 Feb, 2019 10:08 am
by prospero
Welcome MaxfieldDreamer. :D

I get the piecrust. The batwing is a bit more mysterious. :D

It is possible to cast ornaments for frames but it's an irksome process. Which is why people don't do it unless they have all
the moulds and have a dedicated setup for making them.

You can do it yourself and use two-part car body filler. But if the ornaments have to be softened to conform with the frame profile
you need to use composition (gesso that is slightly thicker than the brush-on stuff)
First you need a another frame with the ornaments on it to take a cast from using modelling clay (Plasticine?). Or carve a pattern yourself out of wood.

Then you have to finish the new castings to blend into the rest of the frame.

Still think it's a good idea? :lol: That's not the half of it.

Fact is, it's such a specialised subject that you aren't going to find a comprehensive 'how to' book or video. :roll:

Re: Newbie Advice on “Pie Crust” and “Batwing” for MP?

Posted: Tue 12 Feb, 2019 11:58 am
by vintage frames
I think your best bet is to talk to these sort of people -
https://www.brickintheyard.com/collecti ... g-supplies
They should be able to advise the best way to form the details you're talking about. After that you have to learn how to gild!
Now there's another subject.

Re: Newbie Advice on “Pie Crust” and “Batwing” for MP?

Posted: Wed 13 Feb, 2019 8:24 pm
by MaxfieldDreamer
Much thanks, all! I knew it was going to be a tough one!