Old World Craftsmanship? What's That?

We promote our custom picture framing as featuring "old world craftsmanship." Does this mean that it's old-fashioned? That the craftsman is old? (Hey, I resemble that remark! Well, I have been framing for over 40 years.)

Corner clamps from the early 1900s

Actually, the phrase refers to several things. Let's start with the materials we use for our custom framing. Many of our mouldings are made in Italy, using centuries-old manufacturing processes. They are not plastic, or pressboard, or cardboard; they are wood. Some ornate frames use a wood base with a resin for the ornate design. This is actually an improvement from the old process where they used plaster for the ornate design. I'm sure everyone has seen old frames where the plaster has cracked or broken; this doesn't happen with resin.

When it comes to construction, well, let's just say "we nailed it!" and we still nail it! Nearly every custom framer has gone to using what is called a "V nailer." This method drives a metal cleat into the bottom of the frame. On the good side, no nail holes—but that also means no glue. This is where it gets sticky (see what I did there?)—we want it sticky. By gluing and nailing, in "old world craftsman" style, we create a joint that is as strong as the wood itself; the corners won't split or get loose. We then countersink the nails and use wood putty, blended to match the moulding, to fill the holes—making them virtually invisible.

From there we go to the latest technology in conservation. We know that whatever you are framing, whether it's a highly valuable piece of rare artwork, a diploma, or your kid's 3rd-grade project, it's important to you. So we only use conservation, acid-free matboards and backing. We also offer art glass with 70% to 99% UV protection, making sure your treasured piece stays its true colors and does not deteriorate.

Most important is the human factor. Skill, creativity, thinking outside the box, and attention to detail make all the difference. Knowledge of the proper way to frame a pastel, a watercolor, an oil painting, or even an antique baseball uniform; that's the essence of old-world craftsmanship!