Framing Art: Plaster Frame Perfection

Framing a painting is an important step in conserving your artwork for the future. While custom framing can be expensive, there are ways to frame your paintings on a budget. This may involve scouring thrift stores for well-made frames or creating your own frame. When framing a painting, it is important to consider the style and colours of the artwork, as well as the materials used to create the painting. For example, oil paintings are traditionally framed without glass. Additionally, the environment in which the painting will be displayed should be considered, as damp is an enemy of artwork. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to frame a painting in a plaster frame, including tips on restoring antique plaster frames.

Characteristics and Values

Repairing cracks, chips and dings in plaster frames

Before repairing cracks, chips, and dings in plaster frames, it is important to assess the damage and determine whether it is a minor or major issue. Minor cracks, such as hairline cracks, are typically cosmetic and can be easily repaired. On the other hand, large cracks, bulges, or signs of structural problems may require professional intervention.

• Clean the frame: Use a feather duster to remove fine dust and dirt from the frame. Cleaning the frame helps you better assess the damage and spot minor flaws.
• Inspect the damage: Look for areas where plaster is missing or cracked. Determine whether the damage is minor or major. If there are signs of water damage, structural issues, or spots where the plaster has separated from the underlying surface, consult a professional for guidance.
• Prepare the repair surface: If necessary, widen the crack slightly with a utility knife to create a V-shaped groove. Remove any loose plaster or debris from the area. Brush or vacuum the surface to ensure it is free of dust and debris.
• Apply a repair compound: Use a putty knife to apply a joint compound or plaster filler to the damaged area. Smooth the surface and ensure it is even with the surrounding frame. Allow the compound to dry.
• Sand the repaired area: Once the compound is dry, use sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections and create a seamless blend with the surrounding frame. Start with medium-grit sandpaper and progress to finer grits for a smoother finish. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth between sandings.
• Prime and paint: Apply a coat of primer designed for plaster to the repaired area. Once the primer is dry, lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper. Finally, paint the repaired area to match the existing colour and texture of the frame.

It is important to note that the repair process may vary depending on the extent and nature of the damage. For valuable antique frames, it is recommended to consult a professional restorer to ensure the best results and preserve the frame's value.

Finding a frame that fits your art

Framing your art can be an expensive affair, especially if you opt for custom framing. However, there are ways to find a frame that fits your art without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

Know Your Art Size

Before you start your frame hunt, ensure you know the size of your art. Measure the height and width of your piece, and keep in mind that most frames will cover a small portion of each side, usually about 1/4" on each side. This will help you determine the frame size you need.

Shop at Thrift Stores

Thrift stores are a great place to find well-made frames at affordable prices. Don't be discouraged if the frames look a little worn or outdated. With a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can transform these frames into something beautiful and unique. Keep an eye out for frames with intact glass, as it can be expensive to replace.

Online Custom Framing Services

With the rise of online custom framing services, you can now design and order frames from the comfort of your home. Websites like Frame It Easy allow you to create custom picture frames for art you already have. Simply upload your art, and they will help you calculate the best size based on the image's printable quality. You can also adjust the DPI (dots per inch) to ensure a high-quality print.

Local Art Supply Stores

If you're feeling crafty and want to create a truly custom frame, you can source the materials from your local art supply store. This option gives you complete control over the framing process and allows you to match the frame perfectly to your art. You can purchase items like foam core board, cardboard, or wood to create the backing for your art.

Repair and Restore Old Frames

If you come across old plaster frames or ornate floral plaster frames, consider repairing and restoring them. Keep in mind that this option requires time, skill, and possibly the help of a professional gilder. It can be a labour-intensive process involving lots of sanding and fine dust, so ensure you take the necessary safety precautions.

Disassembling the frame

Disassembling a frame can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done safely and easily. Here are the steps to disassemble a plaster frame:

Prepare the Frame and Gather Tools:

First, assess the condition of the painting and frame. Examine the front and back of the frame to understand how it was assembled and attached to the painting. Gather the necessary tools, such as a microfiber cloth, small flat-head screwdriver, butter knife, or needle-nose pliers.

Remove Attachments:

If there are any staples, screws, or nails holding the painting to the frame, carefully remove them. Use pliers to gently pull out staples or grip and turn nails while pulling gently. Avoid using excessive force, as it may damage the painting or frame.

Separate the Painting:

Turn the frame over and gently remove the platform holding the painting. Ease the painting towards one side of the frame while lifting the other side at a slight angle. Be cautious not to press your fingers against the paint surface or the back of the canvas, as it may cause damage.

Handle with Care:

Once the painting is removed, carefully examine it for any stuck paint or indentations left by the frame. If necessary, use a tool to gently pry the glue or stuck paint from the frame and the painting. Always handle the painting and frame delicately to avoid accidental damage.

Clean and Store Components:

After disassembling the frame, clean each component carefully. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the frame and any other reusable parts. Store the painting and frame components safely, ensuring they are handled with care to prevent damage during storage or transportation.

Disassembling a plaster frame requires patience and a gentle approach to protect the artwork and frame. By following these steps, you can confidently separate the painting from the frame and prepare the components for any desired alterations or cleaning.

Painting or restaining the frame

Painting or restaining a plaster frame is a simple process, but it requires some preparation and patience. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Prepare the Plaster Frame

Firstly, ensure that your plaster frame is completely dry before painting it. Plaster is highly absorbent and permeable, so it needs to be thoroughly dried to prevent the paint from being absorbed or cracking and peeling off. The drying time can vary, but it typically takes at least a week and can take up to four weeks or more, depending on temperature and humidity. To speed up the drying process, you can gently warm the room or improve airflow by opening windows.

Thin the Paint

Once the plaster is dry, you need to thin your paint. Thinning the paint will allow it to penetrate the plaster and adhere correctly, creating a strong base for additional coats. Check the instructions on the paint tin for guidance on thinning. Typically, you can thin the paint by adding water or a suitable spirit. If your paint requires cleaning with soapy water, you can thin it with water. If it specifies cleaning with a spirit, thin it with that spirit.

Create a Mist Coat

Before applying your chosen paint colour, create a mist coat by mixing two parts emulsion paint with one part water. A mist coat acts as a primer, sealing the plaster and helping your topcoat adhere better. Apply the mist coat with a roller or a paintbrush, being cautious of drips as the mixture is quite runny. Allow the mist coat to dry for around 24 hours before proceeding.

Apply Your Chosen Paint Colour

Finally, apply your chosen paint colour to the frame. You can use a roller or a paintbrush for this step, depending on your preference and the desired finish. Allow the paint to dry completely before reassembling the frame and inserting your artwork.

By following these steps, you will achieve a professional and long-lasting finish on your plaster frame.

Attaching the canvas to the frame

If you have a stretched canvas or have completed the process of stretching a rolled canvas, you are now ready to attach it to your frame. Choose a frame that is slightly larger than your canvas, and select the mounting materials you would like to use, such as screws or clips. You can also choose to add a mat between the canvas and the frame, but this is optional. When attaching the canvas to the frame, be sure to use acid-free materials to protect your artwork from degradation over time.

There are several popular framing options to consider, including floating frames, traditional frames with a mat, and simple frames without a mat. The best choice for your artwork will depend on your personal preferences, as well as the style and colours of the painting. For modern or minimalist artwork, a simple frame without a mat can work well, while a traditional frame with a mat can add elegance to a classic piece.

Frequently asked questions