Picture framing with Michael Bowyer

Ref: S3D31956

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About this course

Learn how to frame up to four pieces of your precious artwork using the basic tools. The course will cover all the essentials of picture framing, selecting frames and mounts to glass cutting and joining mouldings.

Course Description

This picture framing course will cover the basics of framing. You will learn how to measure and calculate the size of your work in readiness to cut the mount, the process of assembling the mounted work, through to the glazing stage. This will include the skill of cutting glass safely for the mounted piece. Once your work has been glazed, you will then be introduced to the process of calculating, measuring and cutting the moulding to make the frame and then onto the finishing techniques of sealing and cording.

Throughout every step of the framing process, the tutor will be at hand to advise you on mount colours, frame types and with any help or advice you might need whilst on the course.

The first night will cover an introduction and demonstration with time to discuss individual requirements together with a Health and Safety briefing.

The aim is that those with little or no knowledge of picture framing will complete a piece of work which they can hang on the wall with pride.

You will need to bring at least four items to frame, approx A4 –A3 size to choose from.

Please be aware large items are going to take longer to frame and will require a lot more materials.

For those interested, the programme can include the inclusion of wash lines, decorative mounts and multi apertures, alongside other key topics, such as discussion on various ideas for framing items, ranging from box framing to floating art work.

Tools and equipment are provided by the College and the tutor, but bring any picture framing related items/equipment if you already have them.

Wearing sturdy covered footwear is essential in this workshop.

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Course Materials

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 therefor 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

Available to buy

  • Available from shop:
  • A limited selection of picture frame mouldings and a limited selection of acid free mount boards (approx 20-30 most versatile shades)
  • Hand mount cutters (Logan 2000)
  • Glass cutters
  • 2mm standard picture framing glass
  • Conservation clear UV glass
  • 2mm backing board: Artbak and MDF
  • 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). Tutor supervision required at all times.

Tutors

Michael Bowyer

Michael Bowyer was a qualified welder and maximum security fencer for most of his working life until a serious accident lead to a career change to a picture framer. He trained at the internationally accredited framing school of Lyn Hall GFC(APF) ADV where he learnt the correct techniques and skills of picture framing which then enabled him to become a Guild Commended Framer, a certification that is recognised worldwide.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

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