Exeter Fine Arts

Custom framing is framing that is specifically done to enhance and protect a particular piece of art. All of the components of the framing that go into the framing are sized and cut to the art.

Custom framing is usually done by a professional framer. The professional framer works with the client to select the proper mounting, matting glass, frame and hanging hardware. The custom framer can be depended upon to work with the client using his expertise to provide framing that will protect your artwork and display it in the best possible way.

This professional framer guides the client. This type of framing cannot be achieved with off the shelf framing components. Custom framing now is far superior to even what it was even a few years ago. Mounting boards, tapes, what it was even a few years ago. Mounting boards, tapes, mats and glass are much improved. Mats are buffered to a ph neutral or ideally rag. Glass provides more clarity and UV protection. Special barriers are available to prevent acid seepage from the wooden frame and backing papers (dust covers) are now available with acid-free paper.

As opposed to big box employees the framers in most custom shops are professionals based on their background, training, and ability to provide state of the art framing. They should be able to advise on current color trends and styles, additional precautions to be taken with more valuable artwork and, more importantly, the right treatment for the historical time period of the art. In addition to the standard mat presentation of single double and even more multiple mats other enhancements of the mats should be considered. These include v-grooves, kobe corners, French lines and panels and fillets. The types of picture glass have become a major consideration. Among the choices are standard glass, etched non-glare glass, UV glass to protect from UV rays, UV non-glare glass, museum glass and on and on. Each type of glass is more expensive than the previous so selection should be based on what is necessary and each individual case, what is affordable to the client, keeping in mind that quality increases with price. The professional custom picture framer always considers the method to be used to hang the art. There are on the market a variety of hangers that the framer may select to properly hang the art.Considerations are the weight and size of the art, the composition of the hanging wall and the ability to adjust for height and level.

Custom framing is an asset to art as a professional custom framer has the ability and sources of supply to correctly frame your art to enhance its value and beauty and to preserve it for the future.

Our experienced professionals also clean, repair, and restore paintings and antique picture frames. The restoration of oil paintings can include repairing tears, relining, cleaning, and in-painting missing paint. The restoration of picture frames, architecturals and furniture includes stabilizing, replacing broken or missing parts, and applying the appropriate finish. Gilders will repair or replace gold leaf, metal leaf, and apply powders and the appropriate wood finish as needed.