Here are some frames we’ve recently had the pleasure of making. Photographs show the process in reverse, and the captions have some insights into the process, but we thought the pictures should do most of the talking.

American Impressionist 22k frame for an oil and canvas by TC Steele (1847 – 1926).

Before the final wash. The frame color is a bit strong here and overpowers the painting.

Working the burnisher. This gives a shine to the gilding.

Clays have been applied.

Burning removes the burrs you may have made during carving, as well as firms and hardens the carving.

American Impressionist 22k frame with Greek Key motif for oil on canvas by our good friend, Nigel Van Wieck (1947-).

Casein wash stippling with the big brush to give it the older, dusty look.

Sharp chisel at work here.

Small chisel work used to define the pattern.

Greek key motif starts with the pencil.

Florentine High Front with white gold for watercolor by Vincenzo Loria (1850-1939).

Painting the back of the fame helps to seal it.

Brown wax adds a little shine, some protection, and a little more depth to the color.

Brown wax gets a little use around here.

More stippling.