Picture Framing and Mounting for Beginners

About this course

The course introduces picture frame making, gilding and related methods for presenting and caring for artwork. Participants work with mouldings, card mounts, glass, adhesives and decorative finishes, while exploring framing design and conservation considerations. Teaching combines practical workshop sessions and demonstrations with talks, lectures, question-and-answer sessions and individual discussions with the tutor. Progress is reviewed through individual and group discussions, Individual Learning Plans and Learning Journals.

What you'll learn

• Apply workshop health and safety procedures, including relevant COSHH regulations.
• Mark and cut glass, mitres and angled mount cuts accurately and safely.
• Assemble frames, seal glass and backing, and secure artwork to card mounts.
• Identify framing equipment, moulding types, acid-free products and adhesive types.
• Apply wood-finishing techniques to picture frames and create plaster casts of moulding.
• Produce written frame costings and describe artwork-care methods and basic design principles.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners seeking an introduction to picture frame making, gilding and the presentation and care of artwork. It is suitable for complete beginners, with practical workshop participation combined with demonstrations, talks and individual and group discussions.

• Independent study is expected through visits to museums, galleries or exhibitions and reading around the subject.
• Progress is reviewed through discussions and recorded learning documentation.
• Support is available for literacy, numeracy, English-language learning and learning difficulties or disabilities.

Before you go

• Learners need to purchase glass, mouldings, mount card, masking tape and a half-inch flat brush for their projects; the tutor advises on these at the first session.
• Tools and equipment, together with some sample materials, are available for use.
• Open footwear, including sandals, must not be worn during sessions.
• Items brought onto the premises or worked on in class are the owner's responsibility.
• Additional support is available through basic education and ESOL provision, with further support for learners with learning difficulties or disabilities.