#FineArtisanWorkshop - Framing Aspects

One thing about picture frames we love at Fine Artisan Conservation Framers is how every aspect of the frame matters. It is remarkable how the slightest alteration of a frame's design can make a big difference on the effect it has on a picture.

The type of wood of a frame moulding can alter a finish, also the different pattern and contrast of the grain can be more or less visible.

Each aspect of a frame's design works to make the frame what it is. By simply widening the frame slightly, one might think the effect would be negligible, but just a few millimetres can make a frame look and feel much weightier.

Shape is also an important feature. By using the same colours and same finish on two differently shaped frames, the results are two very different looking frames. The shape has a big effect on how the colour behaves: how the light catches on it, how the finish sits amongst the crevasses (or lack of them).

The combinations are endless which makes creating frame samples a lot of work. Creating new samples is something which requires experimentation as well as some careful consideration. Colours and finishes need to be tested; the successful ones need to be applied to the right frame.

We would like to draw your attention to the following newly created samples in the Fine Artisan Conservation Framers workshop which are now available and on our display boards. The profile used for these samples is an elegant reverse section moulding with a frieze.

Both of these samples are the same profile, both have a paint and wash hand finish, and both are painted using Farrow and Ball colours called Pigeon and String.

The only difference between these two samples is the colour of the wash used to finish them. Despite these samples having more in common than differences, the result is two quite different effects. While the bottom one has a subdued greyness to the hues, the top one is brighter and paler.

Although the differences might seem small, the effect they are have on an artwork can be quite visible. It can be the difference between a frame working well and a frame working exceptionally well. This is why it is important to try out as many combinations of frames and finishes as possible. You never know which combinations will be the winners. We will be continually expanding our range of hand finishes and work with our clients to explore new possibilities.

Visit our client space to view our carefully selected collection of framing samples including our hand finished and gilded range.