Framing
WELDED FRAMES
Offer Flexibility in Design
By April Hann Lanford
Welded Frames Offer Flexibility in Design
By April Hann Lanford
The beauty of metal frames is that you can take an industrial and raw approach to them, or in other cases, achieve a highly polished, minimal and sleek appearance.
Due to their inherent strength, metal frames can allow for narrower frame profiles for larger artwork. It all depends on the type of metal selected as well as the finish.
Steel
Steel frames have become more popular over the past few decades. For a more industrial look, the metal can be presented in its welded, untreated raw state. Surfaces can be intentionally distressed and weathered to add to the rustic appearance. Welded seams can be left as is as a decorative component showing the inherent structure of the join, or they can be ground to a smooth finish. The metal can also be treated to achieve different tonalities, ground surface textures and sheens.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel profiles usually have a brushed or a highly polished surface. Unlike steel, the surface does not oxidize over time. The brushed surface can soften the appearance of the frame while adding subtle surface texture.
Bronze
Bronze has a nice warmth and works well with sepia tones, iron gall ink, albumen prints, etc. The surace can be wax, patinated, burshed, hammered and toned.
Brass
Brass looks best when highly polished. Its warm gold tone works well and is a more cost-effective option than a burnished gilded closed corner frame.
Copper
With the revived interest of warmer metals, copper profiles have had a resurgence. Hammered, lightly brushed and patinated, or highly polished, copper is still not seen much in framing, but makes a striking appearance when used.
Bronze
Bronze has a nice warmth and works well with sepia tones, iron gall ink, albumen prints, etc. The surace can be wax, patinated, burshed, hammered and toned.
Aluminum
Aluminum frames are a popular choice for their light weight, and narrow profile widths.
Like brass and stainless steel, aluminum is often highly polished to achieve a mirror like reflective surface. The surface can also be brushed or powder coated in a variety of painted finishes and colors. Aluminum is typically the metal of choice when cost is a consideration for closed corner frames.
If you have questions or would like to see any of these options in person, please feel welcome to contact us at:
April@artifactservices.com
312-344-0331
FrAMING Articles
There is a lot that goes into the design and fabrication of an archival custom frame. Whether a minimal TIG welded aluminum frame, acrylic vitrine, or a custom carved wood, 22k gilded antique revival frame, each design can have a variety of approaches and materials.
Topics are written top help familiarize our clients with the materials and techiniques that are recommended for fine framing.
Click Here to Review Helpful Information about Finsihed Corner Frames, Gilding, Welded Frames, Specialty Glass and Acrylic, Archival and Museum Quality Framing.
Additional Reading
Examinations, condition reports, and related cost estimates
can be completed at one of our studios, online or onsite
Call or email us today to work with us on your project
At Our Studios
Clients are welcome to make an appointment to drop off items at one of our studio locations for an estimate.
Upon completion of the assessment, we will follow up with a written condition report and treatment proposal for your approval.
Custom framing appointments can also be made at any of locations.
To schedule an appointment please feel welcome to email, call, or submit an inquiry via through our form at the bottom of the page.
Online
We also welcome inquiries through email.
If you have questions about a general treatment or need an approximate cost for a project, you can send images and information about your piece. When possible please include the following information:
Title, Artist, Medium, and Size
Condition Observations and Concerns
Images of the front and back, with any details.
We will call you to follow up and gather any further pertinent information.
Onsite
Clients are welcome to make an appointment to drop off items at one of our studio locations for an estimate.
Upon completion of the assessment, we will follow up with a written condition report and treatment proposal for your approval.
Custom framing appointments can also be made at any of locations.
To schedule an appointment please feel welcome to email, call, or submit an inquiry via through our form at the bottom of the page.
Contact
Get In touch
april@artifactservices.com
(312) 344-0331
Main Location: 840 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60642
By Appointment
Mon-Fri: 9:00am – 5pm
Sat: 10am-2pm
Sun: Closed
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840 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
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Additional Locations
We can also serve you by appointment at our other locations in the Chicagoland area.
Lake Forest-Highland Park
Lincoln Park
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