Picture Framing Course

Lesson 1 • Measuring and Reading Dimensions

Introduces fractional and decimal measurement systems used in framing. Accurate measurement underpins every subsequent cutting and fitting task.

Lesson 2 • History and Purpose of Framing

Traces framing from decorative borders to archival protection. Establishes why material choices and construction methods matter for artwork preservation.

Lesson 3 • Workshop Safety and Organization

Establishes safe tool handling, ergonomic practices, and workspace layout. Prevents injury and supports efficient workflow throughout the course.

Lesson 1 • Adhesives, Tapes, and Fasteners

Reviews reversible and permanent adhesives, framing tapes, and mechanical fasteners. Emphasizes reversibility for conservation-grade work.

Lesson 2 • Mat Board Materials and Grades

Distinguishes paper, cotton rag, and alpha-cellulose mat boards by pH and longevity. Guides material selection for archival vs. decorative applications.

Lesson 3 • Glazing Options and Properties

Compares standard glass, non-glare glass, acrylic, and UV-filtering glazing. Students select glazing based on artwork sensitivity and display environment.

Lesson 1 • Calculating and Cutting Moulding Length

Teaches the formula for converting inside dimensions to cut lengths accounting for rabbet depth. Accurate length calculation eliminates wasted moulding.

Lesson 2 • Checking and Correcting Square

Introduces diagonal measurement and squaring tools to verify frame geometry. Correcting out-of-square frames before assembly prevents fitting failures.

Lesson 3 • Miter Saw Setup and Calibration

Covers blade selection, fence alignment, and stop-block positioning for repeatable 45-degree cuts. Proper calibration prevents cumulative error across all four cuts.

Lesson 1 • Calculating Mat Window Openings

Teaches overlap, reveal, and border calculations for standard and weighted-bottom mats. Accurate math prevents artwork from being hidden or over-exposed.

Lesson 2 • Mat Cutter Types and Setup

Introduces hand-held, wall-mounted, and computerized mat cutters and their adjustments. Correct setup is the foundation for consistent bevel cuts.

Lesson 3 • Executing Bevel Cuts

Guides students through start-stop points, blade entry, and corner completion for clean bevels. Consistent technique eliminates overcuts and corner tears.

Lesson 1 • Fabric and Specialty Mat Surfaces

Demonstrates wrapping mat board with linen, silk, and suede for textured presentations. Surface selection must complement the artwork medium and frame style.

Lesson 2 • Multi-Opening Mat Layouts

Covers grid planning, spacing formulas, and cutting sequences for mats with multiple windows. Consistent spacing across openings is the key quality benchmark.

Lesson 3 • Decorative Mat Techniques

Introduces French lines, panel lines, and ink-ruled borders as hand-drawn embellishments. These techniques add custom value and distinguish professional work.

Lesson 1 • Cleaning and Handling Glazing

Covers lint-free cleaning methods and safe handling to prevent scratches and static. Clean glazing is essential before any artwork is placed beneath it.

Lesson 2 • Assembling the Frame Package

Sequences the layering of glazing, mat, artwork, and backing for a clean, gap-free fit. Correct order prevents contamination and ensures structural integrity.

Lesson 3 • Hinging and Mounting Artwork

Teaches reversible hinging with Japanese tissue and conservation mounting methods. Proper attachment prevents artwork damage while allowing future removal.

Lesson 1 • Handling Sensitive and Fragile Media

Addresses framing requirements for works on paper, photographs, pastels, and textiles. Each medium has unique vulnerabilities that dictate specific handling protocols.

Lesson 2 • Archival Materials in Practice

Applies knowledge of pH-neutral boards, conservation glass, and inert spacers to real projects. Material substitutions are evaluated against archival benchmarks.

Lesson 3 • Conservation Framing Principles

Defines reversibility, chemical stability, and physical support as the three pillars of conservation framing. These principles guide every material and method decision.

Lesson 1 • Oversized and Panoramic Framing

Addresses structural reinforcement, joining moulding lengths, and handling large glazing panels. Safe transport and installation planning are integral to oversized projects.

Lesson 2 • Sports Memorabilia and Jersey Framing

Demonstrates mounting jerseys, bats, balls, and signed items with archival methods. Presentation must balance visual impact with long-term preservation.

Lesson 3 • Canvas and Stretched Artwork Framing

Covers floater frames, liner mouldings, and offset clips for canvas presentation. Students select the correct method based on canvas depth and aesthetic intent.