picton Archives - Campbelltown Framing Gallery

Picture Framing

March 11, 2014 By admin

Campbelltown Framing Gallery is a family business operated by Ed and Cynthia. We have over sixty years experience in the framing industry and we are known for our high quality workmanship. We also pride ourselves on being one of the few conservation framers in the Macarthur area.

Campbelltown Framing Gallery – Conservation Framers

Conservation framing means we use the very best acid-free materials to protect and preserve your work. Artworks come in many shapes and sizes including original art, prints, photography, embroidery, certificates, military and memorabilia. At Campbelltown Framing Gallery every picture framing job is treated with respect – we appreciate that your work needs protection because of its sentimental, historical or monetary value. Our best job today ensures your work will be around for future generations.

Quality materials used include paper, mat boards, glass, tape, staples and mouldings (moldings). Anything that comes into contact with your work has to be of the finest quality. You can be assured your work will never be glued, sprayed, stapled or cut. We have seen work that has been cut to fit the frame. At Campbelltown Framing Gallery our frames are cut to fit your work. None of our frames are pre-cut – we have three metre lengths of picture frame moldings in store.

We do not use MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard). This board attracts moisture to itself and mould can set in and destroy your work. Sadly we have to re-frame works that have deteriorated due to poor quality materials and workmanship – if your works are worth keeping it is an investment to frame them well.

This excellent article in Wikipedia can give you more insight into picture framing. The frame should compliment the picture but not become the main focus.

Not all framing requires glass. But when it is used matting is very important to keep the picture from sticking to the glass – a picture can be easily ruined from condensation on the inside of the glass.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we pride ourselves on quality. On your first visit we will inspect your work with you and discuss your requirements. A simple quote is not possible unless we know how you intend to show the work, the type of picture frame moulding and whether glass is a requirement.

We are humbled that so many of our customers return to Campbelltown Framing Gallery year after year. Each job is special and that is the way it must be.

Picture Framing from our Archives

Custom Mirrors

March 11, 2014 By admin

A custom mirror from Campbelltown Framing Gallery allows you create a personalised mirror – and with our combinations of frames, style and colour your choices are endless. Now, your selection of mirrors is not limited to what the store has in stock.

The wrong mirror can change the decor of a home. And very often a mirror is bought without taking design into account. Few people know that professional framers can create mirrors to suit your home – whether that be for the lounge, hallway, bedrooms or bathrooms.

With a custom mirror from Campbelltown Framing Gallery you make the decision on the size, shape and frame. You are welcome to bring an image of where the mirror will be hung and we can help you create a style to suit that area.

Choose the right frame.

When buying a ready cut mirror in a store a gilded frame may look great amongst other classic items but once you get it home it loses its appeal. The shape and style might be wrong for the room. Whereas a custom mirror from Campbelltown Framing Gallery will remove the guesswork.

Custom Mirrors – Measuring

Before choosing a design and size it helps to measure where your mirror will be placed – and how much mirror space you can work with. You will also need to take into account the size of the frame when measuring. The bigger the mirror, the bigger the frame. An easy way to do this is to cut paper to the size you want and tape it to the wall. You’ll then know if that is the right size. One large mirror may suffice or perhaps two smaller ones might look better.

Custom Mirrors – Frames

We have hundreds of picture frame mouldings at Campbelltown Framing Gallery and your custom mirrors can be framed with any of these. Customers mostly choose gold gilded, silver gilded or wood grained frames. Once you have chosen the size it will be cut to suit – the larger frames are usually 4 – 6 mm thick for safety reasons.

You are welcome to visit our studio and workshop where we are happy to provide a quote.

Framing Repairs

March 10, 2014 By admin

All framing repairs at Campbelltown Framing Gallery are taken seriously. There are many reasons why your work might need repairing and we have the experience and patience to ensure the job is done right.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we have experience :

repairing or replacing broken frames,
replacing smashed glass
making minor repairs to artwork
touching up original art damaged by smoke and fire
drying and touching up work damaged by mould and water
cleaning and touching up gilt frames
repairing matting
replacing hangers
masking a ripped canvas

Many broken frames and glass have been caused by a glued hook parting from the wall. Whilst these hooks are advertised as perfect – they are not. If you value the works you have collected we suggested never using a stick-on framing hook.

Some of our work is the result of “home repairs”. We do not suggest framing repairs be done by yourself or handing the job over to an inexperience person. Let us inspect the work and if it is beyond our capabilities we will suggest a restoration expert.

Repairs to Original Art

Cynthia is also an artist and knows the value customers place in their works – she personally does touch-up jobs. The key here is to match the paint’s colour and style to the artist’s work. Whilst we are not restoration experts we are able to help camouflage minor problems.

Memorabilia damaged after falling from wall.

The memorabilia fell from the wall (top images) – the glass smashed. The cheap frame broke. The cord was fastened poorly and sadly the images were stuck down on MDF board. Campbeltown Framing Gallery uses proven techniques to help protect and restore your work (bottom images).

Framing Repairs – Gilt Frames

Gilt frames are usually covered in silver and gold. They are exceptional looking and enhance the most wonderful of artworks. If they are damaged we will try to repair or if the damage is beyond repair we may be able to order another picture frame moulding as close to the original as possible. Many older gilt frame mouldings have been discontinued and a specialty art conservation framer may be called for.

damaged water colour for repairs at Campbelltown Framing Gallery

This water colour has been stuck directly onto a poor quality board. And the border paper was stuck covering the original art. Surprisingly the art has retained good colour.

Repairing of Mat Boards

Insects, mould, smoke or the elements may have damaged your matting. We are able to replace these also. Our computer programs are able to cut the mats to the exact specifications of the original.

All our framing repairs are done with acid free products. We do not use MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard). We are very happy to offer a quote but will need to see the original work first.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we have the experience and passion to help return your artwork back to mint condition.

Framing Needlework

March 9, 2014 By admin

When Framing Needlework there are several things to consider. And at Campbelltown Framing Gallery we work with you so your work hangs beautifully.

We will ask you if you want the un-stitched areas visible – if not we can adjust the mat board to suit. Mat board comes in varying shapes and sizes. Our computer programs can create the most intricate of designs to show your needlework. You might want to show two or three works in one frame – we can create that also.

We will create a frame to suit your needlework. Any old frame will not do. Our frames are cut from lengths of picture frame mouldings. And we have corner samples on hand to give you an indication of how your finished product will look.

Matting when Framing Needlework.

A mat board surrounds the needlework – these come in many colours but needlework usually looks good surrounded by gold, creamy or even earthy coloured frames. Again this will enhance your work. Like frames, the mat board should not become the focus of attention. Your needlework is the focus.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we are conservation framers and use acid free products. We have been framing for many decades and have re-framed works ruined by moisture especially from medium density fibreboard (MDF). Our aim is keep your work looking great for many, many years to come. We’re happy to walk you through our framing processes.

When framing needlework and tapestries conservation framing protects threads and fabrics from deteriorating. When we create frames for your needlework, tapestry, cross or long stitch our recommendations are based on the showing and preserving of your works.

Framing needlework is an art in itself. As conservation framers we make a stand and will only use acid free products. You are welcome to call into our workshop and studio. At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we have the experience and passion to help.

Framing Prints

March 9, 2014 By admin

When framing prints Campbelltown Framing Gallery ensures the frame compliments the print. For many these prints are collectables and often times are one offs, so great care has to be taken.

We take great delight in framing posters from your favourite rock band. Some of these are years old and have been rolled up for posterity. But when something is rolled up it is only a memory. Once framed that memory comes to life.

Like all our work the framing posters is of equal importance. Some of prints we have framed include bands, movies, sporting events, rock concerts, orchestra’s, psychic nights, old prints of master painters and musicians and then some.

Framing Prints for Posterity

For some prints we recommend a mat board. This will put a boarder around your print. This can enhance the poster. Some posters are framed with the frame right on the print – this can suit some but not all. We need to see each piece of work before we can give a recommendation.

All our materials are acid free. So anything that comes into contact with your work will not be damaged. We do not use Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) as this can attract moisture to itself resulting in damage to your print.

We have access to Australia’s largest range of prints and posters online. You can find them here. They have thousands of prints on every subject and theme. We’re happy to frame these also.

At times we have framed very old posters. Some are tattered and torn. If they had been framed all those years ago they would still be in mint condition. Our aim is keep your print looking pristine as we know it will take pride of place in your home.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery, framing prints is one of our specialities. Please contact us.

Memorabilia

March 8, 2014 By admin

Great care has to be taken when preserving items of memorabilia. At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we offer the very best creative solutions to show and preserve your work. Our combined sixty years experience places us in a league of our own. Often we are asked to re-frame memorabilia that has been ruined by framers with little experience and it’s what you don’t see that can cause trouble later on.

Football Jerseys. These need to be stretched and fastened so they hang perfectly. A common mistake is to staple the edges of the jersey to a mat board with is then stuck to an MDF Board (Medium Density Fibreboard). The problem here is that MDF attracts moisture to itself and in time mould can set in. The staples have penetrated and destroyed the fabric and then gone rusty. Re-framing is not difficult but is very disappointing to see an item of special significance destroyed by careless framing.

Cricket Bats. Presentation is the key. Recently we re-framed a signed Donald Bradman bat. The original framer had penetrated the bat with screws to hold it in place. At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we don’t destroy any item to preserve it.

Boxing Gloves and Trunks. We are able to frame these using 3D box frames made to measure. The box can hold many items of significance.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery our frames are cut to suit your work and not the other way around. Our computer programs cut mats to the finest detail – this means circles and squares are perfect every time. The right memorabilia framing can change a simple item with great sentimental value into a masterpiece.

When framing memorabilia we know it’s special. That special item represents many years of dedication and commitment and the right frame will present that story for many years to come.

Memorabilia from our Archives

Framing Medals

March 6, 2014 By admin

We take great care when framing medals, citations and memorabilia. These may be your own awards or those of family members. Some people prefer to frame their original medals but have access to them for Anzac Day and other occasions. For family heirlooms 3D Boxes can be created to hold medals, photographs, service history, plaques and anything else of significant sentimental value.

We can also arrange to have medals mounted to the correct military standards. Mounting is the fastening of ribbon and clasps to the actual medal. The medals are then grouped and fastened together.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we ensure that medals are placed in the correct order. Service medals cannot be placed in any order so they look pretty – the correct order for mounting and framing of Australian Honours and Awards can be found on the Defence Honours and Awards and It’s an Honour websites. These are both excellent resources.

Framing Medals and Mounting

Campbelltown Framing Gallery is able to help you present your medals and military memorabilia in the best way possible. We can also:

Arrange for the mounting of existing medals.
Arrange for replacement ribbons if the medal ribbon on older medals has deteriorated.
Access information on the correct placement of foreign medals.
Arrange to have old photographs repaired or freshened up.
Recommend a selection of frames or 3D Boxes to hold your medals.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery our frames and 3D Boxes are created to suit your work and not vice versa. Our computer programs are able to cut mats to the finest detail – even obscure shapes and sizes. The right medal framing pays a great honour to the family members they represent.

When framing medals and military memorabilia we know it’s special. Those medals represent family members who served their country well. May we never forget them.

Business Framing

February 26, 2014 By admin

We have been framing for business (business framing) since the 80’s and each job is as important as the best work of art. The same principles apply whether the job is a certificate, letter, photograph or a painting. Campbelltown Framing Gallery is a conservation framer – this means our products (and attitudes) are acid free.

Business Framing – some of our clients include:

Campbelltown Council
Campbelltown Art Centre
Campbelltown Chamber of Commerce
C91.3 fm
Camden Council
Profit Advantage Group
Visy Packaging
Toyota
Hillbrick Bicycles
Moore Truck Parts
Local artists
Business Awards
Schools and Colleges
Scout Jamboree

We know the certificate, award or letter of appreciation will hang in public view – during its life it may have thousands of admirers. It has to be right. Acid free materials will ensure the award does not attract mould or yellowing. The best materials give your awards the life they deserve. Far too often a cheap frame will leave the certificate looking unappreciated.

Individual awards have to be protected for generations. These treasured items mean a great deal to the recipient and their admirers. Yes, a cheap frame can be bought at the $2 shop – but it shows little love for the recipient. A great frame will certainly add to the occasion.

Framing for Business – Special Challenges

Over the years we have been asked to create special framing to house and show sentimental items. Each of these are unique and take time in planning. The positioning of each item in the frame or shadow box is important. Then the right colours, frames and matboard all help to tell the story.

Our Business Framing experience means we can offer different solutions to varying challenges. Our computer programs enable perfect cuts to the most complex of mats boards.

When framing for businesses we know the job is special. That certificate may represent years of hard work and the right frame will help tell that story for years to come.

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we are open six days a week 9 – 5. We know the urgencies with Business Framing and we are able to adjust timetables to suit.

Original Art for Sale

February 23, 2014 By admin

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery we have original art for sale. The art is created in Australia by well known Artists. Many of the works we sell are very large pieces – suitable for a lounge or dining room. Our prices will suit your budget and below are some of the pieces we have on display.

Commissioned Original Art for Sale

We are able to show various other styles and can arrange for commissioned work to suit your needs. Many of our arts are not framed – they are large acrylic or oils on canvas.

What is the Best Original Art to Buy

We are often asked to share our wisdom on the best work. Art is a matter of taste – unless you are buying it as an investment. Whether one artist is technically better than another is of no concern to your eye – the piece of art that looks good to you should be your choice. Art is to be enjoyed and at any art show everyone has a different opinion.

If you enjoy your room’s décor, and need to finish it off with art, here’s a suggestion. Ask what feeling you want the room to convey. Perhaps you entertain in this room. If this is the case, a lounge room or dining room could have smaller and larger art in clusters. Allow people space as the take in the art – a piece of art in a small hallway doesn’t allow that. A selection of paintings hanging close to the dining room table will be a point of focus for diners. Do you want it to be controversial? Romantic or perhaps peaceful?

Your choice of art can tell a lot about you. How do you want others to react?

We have many styles of original art for sale. Please come in to our studio and browse.

Learn Framing

February 22, 2014 By admin

Ed runs a informative one day hands-on learn framing course in Campbelltown. He has been framing since he was a young man. And for the past decade has been operating the Campbelltown Framing Gallery with Cynthia. Together they have much experience with all facets of framing including general framing of art works and prints.

Both Ed and Cynthia are on the tools which keeps them up to date with the latest and best framing techniques. They are sticklers for conservation framing and MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) never makes its way to the gallery. So best not to ask if you can use MDF as a backing board. Cynthia explains they do not use this type of board as it attracts moisture to itself which will ultimately destroy your picture. As you learn framing you’ll come to understand this more and more.

Learn Framing – on the Weekend

Ed usually runs the Learn Framing course on a Sunday – usually for the full day. You will need to bring something to frame. Preferably a piece of art or an image that is dear to you. You will learn about:

cutting and choice of mat boards
conservation framing
mounting your work
cutting and joining
choosing the right picture frame mounting
gluing and stapling techniques
cutting and handling glass

At Campbelltown Framing Gallery they take great pride in their work – which means you’ll probably learn from the best. Ed teaches using the old tools – tools that you might have at home. It is no use learning on the big fancy equipment as you’ll be unable to duplicate the process out of the studio.

Campbelltown Framing Gallery is located at 11/3 Hollylea Road, Leumeah. There is plenty of parking and the location is within walking distance to Leumeah Railway Station. There are many restaurants and fast foot outlets within walking distance also. Or bring your own lunch – they also have a coffee machine.

Many have doubted they could ever learn framing. But Ed is a good teacher.