This course will introduce the basics of framing – how to choose mounting and frame styles, and how to cut and join a frame using standard framing equipment. It will cover different materials and how they interact with your artwork, how to select the most suitable mounting, glazing and style of frame. Attention will be brought to issues of preservation, which are often overlooked in DIY framing, as well as the aesthetic considerations when making colour and material choices.

You are invited to bring up to four works on paper, which you can select from and frame during the course. These could be photographs, a watercolour painting, prints, poems, flyers, postcards or other mementos. Small canvases or works on panel or board may also be possible.

Options will be explained when there is more than one material or method, and why you might choose one over the other.

You will learn how to calculate your frame size, with the addition of a mount, cut mitres and join a frame that is structurally secure and perfectly sized. You will also have the opportunity to cut glass to size, as well as a bevelled window mount. Mounting methods and decoration such as wash-lines, painted bevels and float mounting will also be covered, and you will be able to learn about methods and styles you may have a particular interest in.

By the end of the course, you will have something ready to hang on your wall and a good idea of the trade, whether it is something you have an interest in doing professionally or for your own framing needs.

Included

A half sheet of mountboard to practise cutting mounts is included in the course fee.

What students need to bring

• A selection of up to four items to frame: prints, watercolours, needlework, memorabilia, etc. Please be aware that the more complicated projects, such as memorabilia, take longer and therefore you might go home with just one item framed. Please also be aware of the sensibilites of others when selecting the images you bring to frame.

• Pencil, rubber

• Tape measures/rules

• Craft knives or scalpel

• Scissors and any tapes mentioned, if you have them

• If you already have any portable picture framing tools, you are welcome to bring them.

Available to buy

Available from shop: A limited selection of picture frame mouldings and a limited selection of acid free mount boards (approximately 20-30 most versatile shades) Hand mount cutters (Logan 2000) Glass cutters 2mm standard picture framing glass – cut and priced to size Conservation clear UV glass – cut and priced to size 2mm backing board: Artbak and MDF – cut and priced to size Framing accessories Craft knives and measuring rules Tapes (masking tape, acid free, double sided, wide brown and decorative) Art supplies

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential

Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am

Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required

Terms & Conditions