The Framers Forum

Hi everyone,

I recently spent a brilliant weekend in Sussex learning the basics of framing. I'm really enthused now and am continuing my education with the same tutor at a weekly FE class. I paint in oils mostly and originally signed up for the course as I wanted to frame some of my own work. However, I now think having a small business I can run from home could be a distinct possibility. I suspect this site will be real godsend to a clueless newbie like me!

Regards
Marylyn

Hi Marylyn, welcome to the club.

Welcome Marylyn.

I started framing to frame my own work. Now I don't have time to paint any.

Hi Marylin,

I'm very new to this forum,too - and framing. You've certainly found the right place; everyone is so kind with advice and knowledge.

Welcome!

Thank you for your warm welcome to the forum. Smithy, I see you're in Surrey. Have you visited the Wessex showroom in Leatherhead? Fantastic range of mouldings, mount boards etc, to drool over. I've already bought materials for my first project at college, and the guy there is very helpful.

Happy framing!

Hi Marylyn,

That's spooky, I've just phoned Wessex (5 mins ago) about their picture framing courses!!

I'm in Wimbledon, so we're almost neighbours.

By the way, I've recently acquired a fabulous book Prospero kindly recommended, called 'Picture Framing' by Peter Bingham. I couldn't endorse the recommendation more strongly.

Speak soon.
PS. apologies for mis-spelling your name on my 1st reply!

Hi Smithy,

Spooky indeed! I saw the posts about the Peter Bingham book and had decided I would get one - definitely will now!

We must be at about the same stage in our journey, although I suspect you're way more practical than I am so I'll have to work extra hard acquiring the necessary technical skills. But a large part of it is also being able to judge what looks best to enhance a particular piece of artwork so am hoping that will be one of my strengths!

Keep warm in chilly Wimbledon, was there this morning.

Marylyn

Ha ha. Me, practical?? You obviously didn't read the thread where I mentioned my fence-post exploits!!

I'm probably coming at framing from the opposite direction as you: what worries me is that I have ZERO artistic ability, so I'm concerned about anything like decorating mounts. My plan is to tell people that it's 'not fashionable any more / it would distract from the image' etc (Only kidding, before I get drummed off the forum).

Seriously, I'm hoping I can learn about what works visually, and (in time) be able to guide people when they ask - as I realise that's a key thing people come to professional framers for.

I suppose my battle plan is to get on that Wessex course, frame some of my wife's pieces (she paints) and see where that takes me. I hope I have some sort of aptitude, as I desperately want out of my current profession.

All the best.

Hi Marylyn and Smithy

Can I also suggest another publication to you. The Fine Art Trade Guild study guide for Guild Commended Framer is very informative - describes materials in detail, methods of framing covering a wide range of topics and describes the different levels of framing. Even if you don't intend to take the exam it is a very useful book to have. It is updated every few years so you know the information is pretty current. You can buy it from various suppliers or direct online from the Guild.

Well worth a look for what it costs.

Have fun on your training courses

Hello,

I have been on the Wessex course and it was great! really enjoyed it

Good luck

Hi Marylyn and Smithy

I've been framing for a while and have a workshop in Carshalton, if you fancy a coffee and chat about framing get in touch, be happy to be any help I can.

David.

Thanks so much David, I've e-mailed you.

Hi Smithy & Marylin,

Welcome to the forum. Nice to have you on board! I hope that you will be do well in your new ventures.

Many thanks, Mark.....lot to learn, isn't there!!

Thank you Mark and David, everyone is so friendly on the forum and it's much appreciated.
David, I may well call into your shop as it's not too far and I think I know a couple of people who've used your services. They were very complimentary!
Marylyn