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About Sara Tro
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I am a professional custom picture framer and designer. I have experience in all areas of picture framing, and own my own custom framing shop. I can answer questions relating to the design of a piece, the preservation of the artwork, color theory, photograph restoration, decor, art placement, room balancing and installation questions.

Experience
I have owned my own retail custom frame shop for 5 years, and managed a high-end shop before that for 5.5 years. I worked for a professional restorer and archivist for 8 months prior to the management position. I am also a fine artist myself, with a BFA in Photography and Printmaking, and have been framing my own work for years and years.

Education/Credentials
BFA Fine Arts, NYSCC at Alfred University, NY

   

You are here:  Experts > Arts/Humanities > Visual Arts > Picture Framing and Art Preservation

Questions Answered By Expert  Sara Tro 
In Category  Picture Framing and Art Preservation

SubjectDate Asked

Framing Sketches11/19/2009
  Q: I live in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and have 4 sketches that my uncle did almost 50 years ago of my sibling ...
  A: So, since the drawings have been rolled, the first thing you should do is to flatten them out by ...
photo gallery wall11/17/2009
  Q: I have some photos I would like to arrange for a gallery wall. The photos are mostly b/w and a few ...
  A: A photo wall can be a very unique and intimate way to personalize your home, so bravo for taking on ...
Hanging A Painting Above the FirePlace11/15/2009
  Q: Sara Can you tell me the best method to hang a painting above a working woodburning fireplace. I am ...
  A: .. Sorry it took me so long to reply. I was waiting for a call back from my install guy, who is my ...
framing a smoke damaged painting11/11/2009
  Q: My mother painted with water color and after she died we split up the paintings amongst family and ...
  A: So, in regard to the smoke stains, those are difficult, (but I don't think impossible) to remove. ...
Hanging A Painting Above the FirePlace11/11/2009
  Q: Sara Can you tell me the best method to hang a painting above a working woodburning fireplace. I am ...
  A: (I feel like I answered this one already, and if so, please just ignore this second reply :) In ...
old paintings11/10/2009
  Q: I have some old painting that are on silk and they are very dirty where do I take them to get them ...
  A: This is a tough one, because the paintings sound delicate and old. You need to find a professional ...
Silk Scarf - Preservation11/9/2009
  Q: I recently received silk scarf as a family heirloom. It was hand painted by my father for his ...
  A: and for the photo. Great scarf and heirloom! So, it looks like you are right in your assumption ...
covering a frame with contact paper11/8/2009
  Q: After carefully measuring and cutting, I find that the paper's 45 degree angles match up very well ...
  A: . So, it sounds like you're covering a frame with a sticky backed paper to change the look of the ...
Trying to identify an older frame.11/7/2009
  Q: I think it might be the late 1800s. It is unusual to me because it is 2 pieces. A gilded small ...
  A: So, unfortunately, this is not my area of expertise, identifying frames, but I can try to give you a ...
art lighting10/23/2009
  Q: We have a very old oil painting size 50"x70",we have tried different lighting but glare is ...
  A: So, the best placement for lighting if you want to get rid of glare is usually a light inset into ...
Japanese battle flag10/10/2009
  Q: I came across a response you gave to a gentleman concerning the framing and preservation of an old ...
  A: I am originally from NY, and have family in Boston and Martha's Vineyard area. I used to know more ...
temperature for storing artwork10/8/2009
  Q: We have some fine oil paintings hanging in a location which is seldom used in the winter. The ...
  A: Hmm.. this is not my focus or area of expertise, but I would render a semi-educated guess that if ...
Heavy mirror - how to hang?9/22/2009
  Q: We bought a large mirror from Ikea recently and need some tips on how to hang it properly. I could ...
  A: So, the best way to hang a heavy mirror is not with wire, but with whatever hardware is on the ...
Napoleon frame9/20/2009
  Q: I have an antique frame and would like to know if its worth getting repaired and also if it is ...
  A: What a cool and unusual frame you have! I think the main bit of info that you'd need is whether the ...
Gallery Framing a piece of Fabric9/5/2009
  Q: I purchased a beautiful piece of hand-loomed fabric while in Bali and would like to display it ...
  A: So, textiles and fabrics should be treated many different ways because they are all treated with ...
framing9/3/2009
  Q: I have had trouble with the m.d.f board which has been used as a backing board for my floated canvas ...
  A: So, MDF is a pretty sturdy material, but it probably slightly porous, and so that is why the warping ...
vacuum framing8/30/2009
  Q: and I was wondering if there is a process or a product that will help me keep it from oxidation, in ...
  A: So, if the painting is on canvas, you'd probably want to use an oil or acrylic medium, and paint ...
oil painting dust cover8/29/2009
  Q: should you put a dust cover on the back of the frame? Thanks - MT
  A: So, this has long been a topic of debate for many framers, and the education on it changes ...
Framing Pastels Between Two Pieces of Glass8/27/2009
  Q: I recently saw an exhibit in Santa Fe, NM of large pastel drawings framed between two pieces of ...
  A: Usually when someone pulls off this frameless look, they use plexiglas and no frame at all. If you ...
picture frames8/20/2009
  Q: I have a picture frame I got from an estate sale that says it was made by Bartolome Estesam ...
  A: I Googled the name and didn't come up with anything too exciting to share. I'm sure you've tried ...
Framing Batik8/14/2009
  Q: I have a small Batik from Brasil that I am trying to frame. If I do not use stretchers, is there ...
  A: So, when framing textiles, you need to treat them a little differently than paper artwork. I assume ...
batik framing with lighthing built-in8/13/2009
  Q: I am interested to frame batik to sell. I have a few questions: a) What is the best way of doing ...
  A: Hmmm.. interesting questions! a) There are many ways to frame a batik. A few things to be sure ...
Old Picture frame with tuscany Photograph8/13/2009
  Q: I have found an old picture frame it does not have any fancies the back however is made of wood and ...
  A: My brother lives in the Boston area, but I'm not too familiar with framers in that area, and neither ...
restore ico7/30/2009
  Q: I have a 100 year old wooden bas-relief icon that was in flood waters 3 years ago. It is very dry ...
  A: So sorry for my late reply. I photograph weddings and the season has begun and hit me hard! So, I ...
preserving brittle-paper artwork7/29/2009
  Q: I have a number of artwork pieces, including many tempera paintings on 18x24 paper, old and brittle. ...
  A: Sorry for my late reply.. Wedding season has hit me hard this year (I photograph weddings:) So, ...
Hanging family portraits up a staircase7/12/2009
  Q: I am in the process of gathering pictures of family members as far back as great-grandparents - most ...
  A: Glad my reply helped a bit! I have been looking for some photos of installs that I've done, and ...
Safe, Economical Storage for Massive Collection of Old Photos7/10/2009
  Q: I have become the family repository for thousands of old photos (my maternal g'father was a ...
  A: Wow! Thanks for writing, Durward! This is a big task for you to accomplish!! But how cool.. ...
Floating without adhesive?7/10/2009
  Q: I am trying to frame a papyrus scroll that we bought in Egypt. It is quite delicate and I'm ...
  A: It is definately true that adhesives can damage, ruin, devalue and/or alter a piece of art very ...
Hanging family portraits up a staircase7/10/2009
  Q: I am in the process of gathering pictures of family members as far back as great-grandparents - most ...
  A: Great question! This is one I get often, because it's so daunting to look at a blank canvas of a ...
painting7/1/2009
  Q: How do you get dust off an oil painting with out hurting it.
  A: I thought I had responded to this question, but it appears I didn't hit send! OOps.. So, to clean an ...
floating paintings 26/14/2009
  Q: I read the post regarding floating paintings by Rebecca. ...
  A: So sorry for my late reply! i was on vacation and forgot to set my auto-respond to that... Anyway, ...
watercolour by les gilbert6/14/2009
  Q: I recently bought a watercolour it is signed les gilbert and is of an early settlers cottage in ...
  A: So sorry for my late reply... I was on vacation and forgot to set my account to auto-reply. So, ...
water stain6/9/2009
  Q: I was at a thrift store last week and bought a really interesting asian art print. I am very pleased ...
  A: Sorry for my late reply.. I'm on vacation :) So, cleaning a water stain can be difficult or easy, ...
stretching a silk scarf6/6/2009
  Q: I own a custom frame shop. I need to stretch a silk scarf. I was going to do that using foamcore ...
  A: Oh what fun, the rolled edge silk scarf with an uneven border :) My best advise is to tell your ...
Hanging Canvas on a Iron Rod6/6/2009
  Q: Did this question below get answered? If so, I would like to know the results please ma'am. Expert: ...
  A: I'm sorry there was a snafu in answering your question.. I never received it the first time :) So, ...
Artwork over a fireplace6/5/2009
  Q: Sara, What is a good guideline for determining the size of artwork over a fireplace? We are ...
  A: Apologies for the quick response and the tardy reply.. i am on vacation with my family on the east ...
mounting question5/8/2009
  Q: Can you please tell me the difference between a flush mount and a salon mount when mounting a ...
  A: So sorry for my late reply.. I am a photographer too and it being wedding season, I have been ...
Does photcopying harm a painting4/29/2009
  Q: I have a precious painting from Nepal, probably oil on canvas, that I want to photocopy. Parts are ...
  A: If the painting is precious, i would avoid a photocopy. It my harm the painting. Instead, consider ...
Framing charcoal sketches4/27/2009
  Q: I am a portrait artist and recently have been commissioned to do several charcoal sketches on paper. ...
  A: Unfortunately, I will not have good news for you on the "glass touching art" question... The only ...
Howe Machine Co. Vintage Mirror4/25/2009
  Q: I own a mirror that has an Howe Machine Co. tricycle on it with a locomotive in the background. It ...
  A: Looks like you have a very cool piece to find out more about! As this is not my area of expertise, i ...
Weight Framed Artwork4/20/2009
  Q: When hanging framed artwork, the instructions always say to use wire that is 3x or 4x the weight of ...
  A: No, there is no special type scale for weighing artwork. I usually just lift it, and if I can easily ...
curled canvas painting4/14/2009
  Q: I recently purchased a painting that was curled. The canvas seems brittle and the painting has a ...
  A: Apologies for my late reply.. Tax time always requires more energy than I remember, but I'm out of ...
acrylic lucite art box4/9/2009
  Q: I made an art piece (it is very light and made of light weight plastic)and I want to mount it on a ...
  A: Great idea you have! The mounting process is fairly easy, so that's good news! You basically will ...
Framing a flag4/8/2009
  Q: My husband has a flag from Iraq that has special meaning and is signed by his men in his squad. I ...
  A: Firstly, humble thanks and gratitude to your husband for his service to our country. I think it's a ...
Oval frame convex photo restoration4/7/2009
  Q: Our family has several heriloom photos mounted in oval frames with convex glass fronts, under which ...
  A: Sounds like you have some very cool vintage pieces! So, this is sort of a "stumper" for me. I have ...
old photographs from convave frames4/7/2009
  Q: I have become the caretaker of several large old family photographs (ca. 1915-1920) that were ...
  A: Sounds like you have been treated to a wealth of interesting historical photographs! How cool! I'm ...
Stuck to the glass4/2/2009
  Q: I have a portrait photograph taken in the mid 1940s that has ben water damaged and has stuck to the ...
  A: Great question! Yes, you're right... If the print is an original gelatin silver print, you can soak ...
Sized Picture3/29/2009
  Q: i know little in photoshop, but now in my firm we have one digitally machine, and we can print ...
  A: . I will try to help in any way I can! So, the only way i know to increase the size of an image ...
Pencil drawing3/26/2009
  Q: My daughter recently was given a pencil drawing made by her Great Grandfather in the early 1930s. ...
  A: I'm so sorry it took me so long to write back to this post! I was trying to find some answers to ...
Applying fabric to a wooden picture frame3/8/2009
  Q: I am building a picture frame for a paper print. I would like to use fabric on the outside of the ...
  A: OOps! Hi Craig! Just realized i never responded to this last post! So sorry :) So, the spacer ...
Applying fabric to a wooden picture frame3/8/2009
  Q: I am building a picture frame for a paper print. I would like to use fabric on the outside of the ...
  A: No problemo on the typos, I sometimes answer questions on my phone, and it drives me crazy with the ...
Applying fabric to a wooden picture frame3/5/2009
  Q: I am building a picture frame for a paper print. I would like to use fabric on the outside of the ...
  A: Now, a few questions for you:) -What is the motivation for using fabric in this project? -Is the ...
old poster sizeed photos3/2/2009
  Q: Sara, I have had three very large poster sized pictures of planes used during WW11 from my father. ...
  A: Sorry for my late reply.. I did a little research, just to make sure I give the best advice here.. ...
baptismal gown/shadow box2/24/2009
  Q: You gave very thorough instruction in an earlier question but offered to give more advice if I ...
  A: No problem! thanks for writing back.. So, if you want to give me a call, please do, but keep my ...
Terrible glare on a favorite picture!!2/24/2009
  Q: I have a large picture hanging in my dining area that we cannot enjoy because of glare. I had it ...
  A: What a dilemma! I have dealt with this before, sadly, and my usual fix is the upgrade to Museum ...
framing art for fuel bath2/23/2009
  Q: I have a large old window frame that I want to hang in my full bath. I have put mirrors in some of ...
  A: Good question! Most people don't ask that until their art is bubbling or warping from moisture! ...
Picture Frame2/23/2009
  Q: I have a few old picture frames circa turn of the century. Is there an approximate value for such ...
  A: I'm not sure about the value, because there is such a big range with antiques. Normally, if the ...
Cleaning material on a frame2/17/2009
  Q: I'm trying to clean a frame that has a cream colored material in the frame. It has some stains on ...
  A: . This is a tough situation, since I can't see or feel what the material is, what the stains are ...
picture frames2/16/2009
  Q: I would like to know how to chose the right color frame and mat for a photograph? In what do I need ...
  A: . Well, each framer has a style that they sort of go by, and they differ slightly, but there are ...
Re-framing a Photograh from 19242/10/2009
  Q: The photo, frame and glass (convex glass) are in great condition but are dissembled. Can I reframe ...
  A: great question! i'm glad you wrote, because you have a very cool piece and it should be taken care ...
warped wood panels2/8/2009
  Q: I have had panels made to paint on - 90 cms square of 3 mm MDF on a frame of 1x1" wood batons. One ...
  A: Well, my first thought would be that it's most likely the wood and not the MDF that has warped, but ...
convex glass replacement2/4/2009
  Q: I am looking for a source for an antique convex glass picture frame. I saw an answer to "Cindi" ...
  A: Not sure if they're still in biz, but the place I have ordered convex glass from is called Northwest ...
warped frame2/2/2009
  Q: my painting is 3' x 4' the wood stretcher is torqued or twisted what can i do to make it hang flat?
  A: Unfortunately, there is really no way to force a stretcher to hang straight if it has been warped by ...
church music framing2/1/2009
  Q: I have a piece of 500 yr old church music. It is double sided. I am a wood worker and would like ...
  A: Cool piece you have! thanks for writing! So, as a wood worker, you must have the frame part taken ...
framing original prints2/1/2009
  Q: I'm actually a gallery owner. One of our artists produces beautiful original hand prints and ...
  A: What a predicament! With the artist away, you're left to explain the process to a client with ...
Wooden Frame1/29/2009
  Q: I have re-stained an old wooden picture frame. I taped the linen that was on the frame to not get ...
  A: So,unfortunately, the job of replacing the fabric is best left to a pro.. It is a tough job, and ...
Framing between 2 Sheets of Glass1/28/2009
  Q: I recently bought a pencil drawing and discovered when I took it to frame that there was another ...
  A: So, how exciting to find another drawing on the back of your piece! Cool! Your framer should have ...
Using picture frame hanging wire1/27/2009
  Q: I would like to use picture frame wire to hang a mirror. The mirror has two "D hooks" already on it. ...
  A: So, this is a pretty normal request, but I must first say that if the mirror is very heavy, I would ...
Dating Year of Make of The Picture Frame1/23/2009
  Q: Can you tell me anything about this frame? It is textured glass and I have been able to find out it ...
  A: Im so sorry for my delayed response.. i was trying to find out some info on your piece.. I came up ...
safe lighting for oil painting on canvas1/19/2009
  Q: I am new to having art in my home. I really enjoy it and want my investment to last for years. I ...
  A: What a great question.. Lighting a piece of art is almost as important as the piece itself, so I am ...
Old Photo Portrait and Frame1/18/2009
  Q: I have an old photo portrait that I picked up at an estate auction. It is difficult to describe the ...
  A: What a cool photo! Well, I'm not sure I will be of much help here, as I would really need to see ...
temperature considerations for stored artwork1/18/2009
  Q: I have recently put paintings and photographs in metal and concrete self-storage units, and now it ...
  A: Hmmm.. this is not my area of expertise, but I would be a little concerned if the storage units are ...
Matting Lithographs1/11/2009
  Q: I recently purchased a lithograph (Picasso on arch paper) from an out-of- state gallery. When it ...
  A: Hmmm.. sounds fishy. The piece should arrive in good shape, having not been mounted for framing yet ...
frame value1/8/2009
  Q: I have a 1923 framed photograph, old portrait with drawing blended in the photo. It is about 2 by 3 ...
  A: Hmmm.. this is not my exact area of expertise. It depends on sooo many things for art value, ...
Ceramic Mirror Hanging1/7/2009
  Q: I purchased a mirror to go above my bed and it has a kind of ceramic plaster around the edge. We ...
  A: This is an unusual problem you have.. Most mirrors, due to the heaviness of mirror glass, are fit ...
framing a lithograph1/6/2009
  Q: I've purchased a signed limited edition lithograph as a gift. I want to have it framed for her. I do ...
  A: So, there are really no rules regarding framing a signed litho, but you are limited a little by a ...
Framing a charcoal sketch1/6/2009
  Q: My name is Curtis. Recently, an artist sketched a 27 x 23 inch portrait of me (charcoal on canvas) ...
  A: How nice to have a professional sketch of yourself done! It must be lovely, and well worth ...
Hanging1/6/2009
  Q: I hope you can help me. I've approached several art shops and framing specialists but noone seems to ...
  A: . So.... hmmm.... This doesn't sound like anything I've seen either.. I'm sorry.. Are the ...
how to frame prints on paper1/5/2009
  Q: i need to know the correct way to attach a ltd ed print on paper to an acid free mount board so that ...
  A: So, great question.. lots to sink my teeth into here :) I hope I can help.. So, firstly, the glass ...
framing art work1/5/2009
  Q: I am a rising artist and i deal mostly with plant materials of all sorts.The problem is how to ...
  A: So, I am not an expert at materials that will stop organic materials from decaying, but I do know ...
box frame for painting on mdf panel1/3/2009
  Q: I would like to frame a painting done on an mdf panel (8x8 " and quarter inch thickness) but am not ...
  A: This is always a tough challange, float framing a piece that is heavy and also too thin to put a ...
replacement curved oval picture frame glass12/30/2008
  Q: Sara, In an earlier note, you mentioned you have some places for replacement curved oval picture ...
  A: Happy new year! Thanks for the question! So, the place I knew as a source for concave oval glass is ...
Shadow Box Framing12/23/2008
  Q: I used a shadow box frame to do a beach theme picture. I used a starfish and seahorse, that used to ...
  A: good question... most people wouldn't consider the moisture that gets trapped inside framed artwork ...
Hanging rolled canvas painting on iron rod.12/16/2008
  Q: I've bought a rolled canvas painting and I like to hang it on iron rod, can you please tell me how I ...
  A: So, the painting is most likely rolled due to ease of shipping or it was removed from the stretcher ...
Mounting a high quality print12/11/2008
  Q: We purchased a large high quality print over the internet and asked a picture framer to mount and ...
  A: So, that's a big photograph! I'm not surprised that it bubbled using the other mounting method. ...
Framing a work of art on glass12/10/2008
  Q: I have a 3" square stretched canvas that I would like to mount on glass, probably using some type of ...
  A: It sounds like you want to float a canvas (on stretcher bars?) on a piece of glass, then frame the ...
oil painting on canvas adhered to wood12/8/2008
  Q: I don't know if this is within the area of your experience but: I am wanting to paint with oil ...
  A: Normally this isn't my area of expertise, but as an oil painter myself, and having framed pieces ...
Mounting a high quality print12/8/2008
  Q: We purchased a large high quality print over the internet and asked a picture framer to mount and ...
  A: Sorry you're having trouble with your picture, but it's great that you thought to write! I think ...
cleaning and framing of paintings that have been left unattended12/1/2008
  Q: My fiance's mother just passed away. She was a painter and loved doing pictures for her family. He ...
  A: Sorry to hear about your loss. What a hard time this must be for you all.. On a less sad note, the ...
proper frame for a family group photo11/30/2008
  Q: I have an 8 1/2 x 11 photo of the family, nine people total, that I wish to frame and present as a ...
  A: Sounds like you have a fun project on your hands! Photographs are fun to frame, in that because ...
Gallery Wrap or frame?11/30/2008
  Q: Need advise on framing please. Ready to do a very large show. A framer suggested I put a 1" x 1" ...
  A: Hmmmm.... so, the backing goes behind the painting and acts to lift them off the wall? Ok, well, if ...
Gallery Wrap or frame?11/27/2008
  Q: Need advise on framing please. Ready to do a very large show. A framer suggested I put a 1" x 1" ...
  A: Great question! No one ever thinks of this before they go ahead and do something permanent to their ...
hanging a curved object11/26/2008
  Q: how do you hang a curved object on the wall...it is a thin wooden fish that is curved inward (tail ...
  A: so, is the fish heavy, or light? is it thick enough to drill a little screw eye into the wood ...
baptismal gown11/26/2008
  Q: Your guidance in framing a baptismal gown was A1. I just have a couple of questions that I'm ...
  A: Glad you wrote back, and that the first answers helped you a bit! To address your new questions, ...
framing11/22/2008
  Q: your a passionate person like myself. I may have to take you up on that futher down the road all ...
  A: Sounds like a real hot mess this guy has you in! How crazy! The trimming, the mounting, and the ...
shadow box framing11/21/2008
  Q: I want to frame a book in a shadow box and I'm wondering about some options for keeping the book in ...
  A: Are you a pro framer? If so, you'll have all the tools necessary to do this.. I recently framed a ...
framing11/21/2008
  Q: your a passionate person like myself. I may have to take you up on that futher down the road all ...
  A: You're welcome! ANd, depending on where you are located, I may have to have a notarized letter sent ...
framing11/21/2008
  Q: if there was a bad job done on a set of exhibition frames would the costomer be correct not to pay ...
  A: I am so sorry you're going through this Lorraine. Not a fair position to be in at all. You can say ...
Batiks - best techniques to preserve and frame.11/19/2008
  Q: I have a number of quality batiks from Indonesia & Sri Lanka which vary between 20 & 30 years old ...
  A: . Wow! 20+ batiks!! That's a lot of batiks! And, that will be expensive to frame up, but ...
Joining a linen mat11/18/2008
  Q: I have to join linen mats. Do you have any advise so that the join is the least visible possible. ...
  A: Ohhhh... Ok. So, no there really is no way to minimize the fraying when you cut through a ...
mounting a painting11/18/2008
  Q: I have four large paintings on un-stretched canvas. They are around 48 x 90 inches each. I need ...
  A: WOW! 48 x 90! that's a big canvas! So, the best way to display them would be to build stretcher ...
Joining a linen mat11/15/2008
  Q: I have to join linen mats. Do you have any advise so that the join is the least visible possible. ...
  A: It sounds like you might be a professional framer? If so, you can take workshops to learn how to ...
frame cleaning11/11/2008
  Q: I recently bought an oil painting that is framed in a beautiful ornate gold frame. The problem-the ...
  A: So, it sounds like you have a beautiful piece & frame you have acquired! I'm glad you wrote, ...
Framing a flag10/30/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a captured WWII Japanese flag. I would like to frame and protect it. Where ...
  A: I'm not familiar with any framers in Long Island, but I will do some research and get back to you if ...
Framing a flag10/27/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a captured WWII Japanese flag. I would like to frame and protect it. Where ...
  A: . Sorry for my late reply.. I thought I had answered the post somehow! So, this is a tough ...
Reframing Antique Photo10/25/2008
  Q: I have an old photo from late 19th-early 20th century. The photo is held in a concave, oval frame. ...
  A: . So sorry for my late reply. Those concave frames are so cool, so it's great that you want to ...
framing small paintngs on paper10/16/2008
  Q: http://picasaweb.google.com/rcrowellart/SmallWorksFromCANResidency# Hello Sara, I am trying to ...
  A: . I sent a diagram of the island float, although in reading this again, I think you're already ...
Leslie Gilbert10/15/2008
  Q: I have in my family two watercolours painted by Leslie Gilbert. One is 'Peckham Rye Park' (the Old ...
  A: Unfortunately, I am not familiar with this artist, nor do I know if the paintings you own are that ...
collage finish10/13/2008
  Q: I created a collage that turned out very well. However, I still haven't quite completed it because I ...
  A: Great collage! So, if it were mine, I would probably use a spray "protector", rather than rolling ...
framing small paintngs on paper10/13/2008
  Q: http://picasaweb.google.com/rcrowellart/SmallWorksFromCANResidency# Hello Sara, I am trying to ...
  A: Weathered Surface #2.. LOVE it.. High Meadow.. yummy. I love your work, thanks for sharing, ...
restoring linen spacer10/12/2008
  Q: I have inherited my great grandfather's oil painting that he painted and framed himself. The linen ...
  A: Hmmm, this sounds like a challenge.. Normally, it's very very easy to replace the fabric on a ...
sourcing liner moulding10/11/2008
  Q: I am a new custom framer and recently attended a workshop on how to fabric- wrap liners. I don't ...
  A: I'm so glad you asked about this, because I think it's so important to practice these techniques, ...
Ambrose 'ship in a storm' painting10/9/2008
  Q: I have a much loved painting of a 3 masted ship in a storm signed 'Ambrose' sadly it was damaged and ...
  A: So sorry to hear about the tear in your beloved painting! The good news is that it can be fixed!! ...
framing10/9/2008
  Q: Is it ok to mat an oil painting?
  A: What a great little question! So, No. You wouldn't really "mat" an oil. You could give the ...
civil war silk flag10/7/2008
  Q: We have salvaged a civil war silk flag. the case is a showdow box and is aprox 6ft X 4ft. there ...
  A: Sounds like a cool project! So, I'm not familiar with the film protectant you describe, but it ...
Photo collage on a brick wall10/6/2008
  Q: I have an exposed brick wall in my dining room. In the center is an antique china cabinet. My ...
  A: So, it sounds like you have a nice project you're working on! Photographs look great on brick walls, ...
unusual question about framing10/6/2008
  Q: I have an unusual question for you! I have written a novel -- an art mystery, for young adults -- ...
  A: What a great question! This is first for me, that's for sure.. How exciting! So, hmmmm.. I hope ...
Stairway Photo Gallery10/4/2008
  Q: I have so many family photos that I think the stairway would be the best place to put them. I'm ...
  A: Your question is an age old one, and many many clients of mine ask about clustering photos along the ...
removing a mirro from a frame10/3/2008
  Q: I purchased a framed mirror for the frame itself. I was hoping to get the mirror out in as few ...
  A: Your thoughts are correct on this one, unfortunately. If the mirror was glued in place and also in ...
Pictures to tie room together9/28/2008
  Q: I have what I think is a very difficult decorating problem and is probably far too complicated to ...
  A: and I'm so glad our conversation helped! I love this forum for that reason, the idea of being able ...
Liners9/28/2008
  Q: I have been informed that when framing a canvas, a liner - wood moulding covered with frabic - ...
  A: West Indies! How cool... So, it's common to use pre-wrapped liners, but the fraying of the edges ...
how many pix above fireplace9/27/2008
  Q: My question is a basic one: Is there a proper number of pictures to hang above a fireplace? I have ...
  A: This is an age old question you have, and people have been debating about it for decades I'm sure.. ...
Works of Art in Pastels9/26/2008
  Q: Could you advise on what should be used when framing a work of art in pastels - glass or pexi-glass ...
  A: The best, and usually only, glazing to use with a pastel is glass, (I use UV glass always), as ...
Liners9/26/2008
  Q: I have been informed that when framing a canvas, a liner - wood moulding covered with frabic - ...
  A: I think I just answered another question from you :).. It sounds like you're a professional ...
shipping framed art9/25/2008
  Q: I saw your answer to a previous question about shipping framed art. Can you please expand upon how ...
  A: The film I spoke of is available through the UPS stores, and is a roll type product that can be cut ...
presenting work on paper unframed9/24/2008
  Q: I have a large watercolor on printmaking paper 50 x 77 inches.I want to hang it without a frame for ...
  A: This sounds like a challange, as watercolor paper that large is probably heavy... I would maybe try ...
Tying the correct knot to hold the string on the D rings9/15/2008
  Q: I am having some trouble in tying the correct knot to attach the nylon chord to hang the picture ...
  A: So, tying the cord properly can prove challanging sometimes, especially without the proper tools. ...
Painting framing9/12/2008
  Q: I have bought a few fine art posters (paintings by Klimt, Modigliani, Chagall). I don't know if they ...
  A: Sorry for my late reply.. I was away for a week with my family. For prints of famous pieces of ...
soft metal picture frame9/7/2008
  Q: I came across a soft metal (silver in color, somewhat tarnish looking)photo frame. The frame has a ...
  A: Sounds like you may have found a sterling, silver plated, or pewter frame, and you may want to get ...
Iron Decor9/7/2008
  Q: I have a canvas painting that is hung from a decorative iron rod. The rod is predominantly black, ...
  A: So, if you're going for a warm, tuscan-inspired feeling, I might go with the antiqued brown. Will ...
hanging picture above mantle9/7/2008
  Q: I just purchased a beautiful painting to hang over my mantle. But... I have held it up numerous ...
  A: So, even though there are no real rules to follow here, normally I would say that for a painting ...
Pictures to tie room together8/31/2008
  Q: I have what I think is a very difficult decorating problem and is probably far too complicated to ...
  A: Apologies for my delayed response, I had to think about this one and really envision it before I ...
I'm a decorator & am framing a watercolor for a customer8/31/2008
  Q: I've attached the print I have to frame. My client wants it in her kitchen which has greens, yeelows ...
  A: and your second question! Of course, as a designer, and obviously someone who knows their way around ...
stretch8/26/2008
  Q: I found a glicee site online. At its submission form, I requested "yes" to would having my canvas ...
  A: So, a giclee is a high-end print on paper, (usually), made with light-fast inks that sometimes come ...
metal frames designs for photo's8/26/2008
  Q: i am doing metal framing structures for framing photos and other kind of framings also -like wood- i ...
  A: Well, it seems you are trying to frame several photographs, but frame them all a little differently? ...
I'm a decorator & am framing a watercolor for a customer8/26/2008
  Q: I've attached the print I have to frame. My client wants it in her kitchen which has greens, yeelows ...
  A: I don't know how to attach the other photos, so we'll have to go with this one on it's own, or you ...
frame an antique textile8/24/2008
  Q: I have a very old (was mine) baptismal gown that I would like to preserve...would framing it be the ...
  A: Sorry for my late reply! Thank you for writing with your question.. So, this is the age old ...
Framing wool8/18/2008
  Q: I have a 12"X 14" hooked WOOL rug. Can I put glass over the wool when I frame it? Thanks
  A: ! Not sure about this one, but my initial reaction would be that yes, you can use glass, but I ...
hanging pictures8/15/2008
  Q: I want to know is it ok to have family pictures on the wall in the living room or should I pick ...
  A: Well,it depends on the photos, the quantity, the quality and the sizes. I think family photos can ...
displaying photos8/11/2008
  Q: I'm wondering if it is okay to display color photos along with black and white photos on the same ...
  A: i think you're on the right track with the idea, and that the one color photo can hang in the middle ...
how to clean a linen liner8/10/2008
  Q: I noticed a few tiny smudges on the linen liner of one of my framed paintings. What is the best way ...
  A: So, cleaning a linen liner is very very difficult, because if you rub the fabric to clean it, you ...
What glue to use: Attaching paper to canvas8/8/2008
  Q: I am working on a project which includes decorative paper...some of the pieces are very small and ...
  A: Sounds like a cool project! So, in terms of attaching materials, paper and other, to canvas, you ...
displaying photos8/6/2008
  Q: I'm wondering if it is okay to display color photos along with black and white photos on the same ...
  A: So, this is a time-tested dilema for most people working with many photos to collage or hang ...
restoring silk panels8/6/2008
  Q: My fiance is 54 yo and has a six foot high room divider on wheels that his grandfather brought back ...
  A: From your description, it sounds like you have a beautiful piece in your collection! First, i ...
Shipping framed art8/4/2008
  Q: I have several art prints that I had professionally framed. I would like to know the proper way to ...
  A: How I would advise you depends on the size of the pieces, and your budget, (overnight versus ground ...
dry mounted photos7/24/2008
  Q: On my honeymoon, I bought several photographs of where we were staying that were drymounted. The ...
  A: COngrats on getting married, and thanks for writing with your question! So, your instinct is ...
Cutting Linen Liners7/23/2008
  Q: I saw your answer to Paul on January 7th regarding how to cut linen liners. I would like to get the ...
  A: so, a few questions: are you a professional framer and need to add seamless liners into your ...
dark watercolor painting7/18/2008
  Q: Sara, Here I go again; I am stuck. This time I have a dark tone watercolor painting. I chose a ...
  A: nice to hear from you again! i only have a minute right now, and can't seem to get time this week to ...
photo frming7/17/2008
  Q: local coffee shop has agreed to hang 10 of my photos. i would like to show them as professionally as ...
  A: congrats on your show! the questions you asked are a little hard to answer, as they sort of pertain ...
old art from 1800s7/15/2008
  Q: how much would a no. 2085 cupid asleep published by taber frang art company Springfeild ...
  A: unfortunately, this is out of my area of expertise. i am not an appraiser, so i would not feel ...
"U" shaped stairway and family photos7/14/2008
  Q: we have a "U" shaped stairway. I want to hang family photos on my stairway. I was wondering if I ...
  A: This sounds like a challenging situation you have.. U shaped stairways are difficult for just the ...
Picture stuck to glass7/10/2008
  Q: I've had a portrait of my son in a picture frame for about 2 years. When I tried to remove the ...
  A: You have a typical but totally correctable situation. Photos are especially susceptible to sticking ...
Restoring antique picture frame glass7/7/2008
  Q: We were just given a convex antique glass picture frame with a photo inside. The photo had mold on ...
  A: Sounds like a cool piece you have, with a typical and annoying problem. I have run into this myself ...
Framing cheaply7/6/2008
  Q: Sara! I have done some researching, and for the most part am left totally confused in some areas; ...
  A: Sounds like you're having a typically untypical situation!! In the effort to keep this brief, I'll ...
Mounting an original watercolor7/4/2008
  Q: I've referred to many books and web sites and have never found an answer to this question. HOW DO ...
  A: yes, its hard to explain some if this stuff without diagrams, and unfortunately, T hinges are some ...
Mounting an original watercolor7/3/2008
  Q: I've referred to many books and web sites and have never found an answer to this question. HOW DO ...
  A: sorry you've had so much trouble finding an answer to your question! I'll try my best to end your ...
preserving antique textiles6/29/2008
  Q: I own an antique fur tapestry hand made in China. I bought it in 1970 (it was old then,) and have ...
  A: Sounds like you have a cool piece of history in your collection! As this is not my specialty, and I ...
How to start6/28/2008
  Q: I am working on the preparation of the art work for the exhibition. Most of this art jobs are oil ...
  A: this is a very very HUGE question, though, and I'll have some more questions for you before I can ...
Paper on back of picture6/12/2008
  Q: I'm just getting started with matting and framing some of my photo's. Could you please tell me: What ...
  A: . So, the paper backing serves a few purposes, and while not a necessity, it has become the ...
Oil Canvas stretching6/9/2008
  Q: I have several oil paintings and I am stretching them myself. Michael's was out of the size wood ...
  A: So, hmmmm.... The breathe-ability of the painting is the only real issue I see in that scenario.. ...
Change watercolors in frame6/7/2008
  Q: I recently bought several watercolors that are the same size (about 17.5" x 11.25"). Some images ...
  A: Apologies for my late reply.. So, as a space and money saver, it is practical to arrange it with ...
Creased Artwork6/5/2008
  Q: Please advise how we could remove a crease from artwork received for framing. Thank you.
  A: this is a tough one to give advice on without seeing it. I would recommend seeing a paper ...
Finishing the Framing Job6/5/2008
  Q: We currently use ATG Tape (924) to affix paper to the moulding to finish the job. A customer has ...
  A: , I use ATG myself to apply the paper backing, and haven't had any issues with it.. So, I'd ...
glass sandwich the egyptian way6/4/2008
  Q: One of my customers has recently been in Egypt,where he's bought a papyrus and wants to hang it up ...
  A: This is a tough one! I have had many clients come back from Egypt wanting this look, so they must ...
Frame Size5/30/2008
  Q: Is it true that you cannot use any size frame on a piece? That the frame needs to be big (width) ...
  A: Yes, this is absolutely true.. The strength of the frame is very important to consider when framing ...
relaxing a rolled poster, & archivally mounting it5/29/2008
  Q: I Have a nice contemporary poster on quality paper that needs un -rolling and mounting, Is using an ...
  A: Unrolling tightly rolled posters for mounting is a "fun" challenge.. I don't envy you having so many ...
Repair Cross Stitch5/25/2008
  Q: I have a piece of cross-stitched fabric that my daughter-in-law spent hundreds of hours doing. When ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your cross-stitch dilema! Being that this is not my area of expertise, I ...
etching framing5/23/2008
  Q: Sara, It's your favorite questioner again!!! This time, it's about an etching. The paper of the ...
  A: I know how hard the t hinge can be, both to follow and to explain, but it's a very valuable step to ...
Framed pictures5/22/2008
  Q: Sara, our company has had posters framed (in plastic frames with plexiglass "glass"). The posters ...
  A: It sounds like the posters are fairly light, so I would probably recommend you get whats called a ...
etching framing5/22/2008
  Q: Sara, It's your favorite questioner again!!! This time, it's about an etching. The paper of the ...
  A: Nice to hear from you again! I checked out your etching in the photo you attached, and it's lovely ...
Framing5/17/2008
  Q: I want to frame something, and want the frame to be just glass (no board back). Let's say I want to ...
  A: thats a good one! So, I do understand exactly what you mean, and you explained it very well! Thus ...
Hanging oil painting on a curved staircase5/15/2008
  Q: I have a curved staircase in my entry. From downstairs to the ceiling of the second floor is about ...
  A: Great question! So, without seeing the space, its hard for me to judge if that size piece will look ...
Restoration of Pryography artwork5/9/2008
  Q: I have a beautiful woodburned portrait that I inherited from my father of his childhood home in ...
  A: It sounds like you have a really amazing piece, and I'm so glad you asked about this before trying ...
"U" shaped stairway decorating5/9/2008
  Q: We have built a new home with a "U" shaped stairway. The stairs are medium stained hardwood, the ...
  A: Please accept my apologies for this reply coming so late.. I thought I had clicked send, but ...
mounting paper onto board/canvas?5/8/2008
  Q: I have a large drawing/painting on fabriano 300gms paper. Materials used: Matt emulsion and ...
  A: Sounds like an interesting project! So, is the paper wrippled already, without mounting it? If the ...
hanging picture above fireplace5/5/2008
  Q: I just inherited a picture that I would like to rest on the mantel of the fireplace. It is a wood ...
  A: Good thing to think about, as the fireplace mantel can be a risky place to place artwork. If you ...
comparing the mat width to the frame width5/3/2008
  Q: I am custom framing an 11x14 wedding photograph, and I would like to know how wide the mat should be ...
  A: so, I have developed a strong opinion over the years about the mat width vs. frame width debate, so ...
Mounting an electric guitar4/23/2008
  Q: I am a professional picture framer and shop owner. I do many types of specialty framing but have ...
  A: You're welcome! Horizontally sounds trickier, but may be more fun, if you like to challenge ...
Mounting an electric guitar4/21/2008
  Q: I am a professional picture framer and shop owner. I do many types of specialty framing but have ...
  A: Great to hear from a fellow framer! What a challenging & interesting question! This sounds like a ...
Storage of watercolours4/13/2008
  Q: I'm from Bangalore, India where the weather gets quite humid.I have a good number of old watercolor ...
  A: And from so far away!! How cool.. So, the issue with your watercolors is this: how were they ...
Choosing frames4/11/2008
  Q: I'm so hung up abou this...I have so many professional pics of family, some black and white and some ...
  A: Great question! This is the time tested, long-standing dilemma of many many home-owners, so don't ...
unfinished frames4/10/2008
  Q: Sara, I bought unfinished frames, and I painted them with acrylic paint. They look dull. ...
  A: Sounds like a great project you're working on! So, I think you were wise not to prime the frames, ...
Framing an oil/acrylic work of art4/2/2008
  Q: Please advise whether glass should be used for an oil/acrylic work of art painted on canvas, paper ...
  A: This is a traditional debate within the framing community, and I'll give you the best advice I can ...
framing3/27/2008
  Q: what is the significant visual difference between a wrapped mat and an unwrapped mat
  A: I'll try to answer it to the best of my ability.. I am assuming that by "wrapped mat" you mean a ...
Hanging an Hermes Scarf Temporarilly3/23/2008
  Q: I'm in a pickle. I bought this great, classic, square, silk, scarf from Hermes. I want to wear it ...
  A: Sorry for the delay in responding.. I didn't get my usual notice that I had a question waiting.. it ...
Re: Restoring silk art piece3/13/2008
  Q: My father brought back a silk embroidered piece from Japan during WWII. It is dirty and needs ...
  A: What a cool piece you have to work on! So, in having the silk cleaned, I would start by calling a ...
plexiglas?3/8/2008
  Q: I read a few of your answers and I'd really like your advice. I have a large wooden frame - 36" x ...
  A: Glad my answer was some help! so, plexi does come in different thicknesses, but mostly hugh quality, ...
LINEN LINER WRAPING2/27/2008
  Q: pLEASE HELP! i WANT TO LINEN WRAP A FRAME AND NEED A STEP BY STEP DIRECTION. i read an earlier ...
  A: So, it sounds like you're trying to tackle a hand-wrapped, museum corner fabric liner, right? If ...
hanging art for theater performance2/24/2008
  Q: Sara, I have a challenge on my hands! I am directing a theater production which includes the ...
  A: Wow, Kay, what a cool project! i love your idea about making the "walls" out of the artwork, and ...
Help on these 2 watercolors2/24/2008
  Q: Sara, It's me again! I am really stuck with the first 2 watercolors that I am starting to frame. ...
  A: I'm sorry but the links/pics still didn't come through. I don't think this site supports that kind ...
Help on these 2 watercolors2/23/2008
  Q: Sara, It's me again! I am really stuck with the first 2 watercolors that I am starting to frame. ...
  A: Well, it seems you're on a good track, but I couldn't see any attachments to the message so I can't ...
mat width2/15/2008
  Q: Sara, its' me again. Thank you very much for your last answer. I really trust your expertise and ...
  A: Well, most framers probably use d-rings/strap hangers and wire on most things because they hold the ...
mat width2/15/2008
  Q: Sara, its' me again. Thank you very much for your last answer. I really trust your expertise and ...
  A: So, in my opinion, in is NOT true that the mat should be the same all the way around. I can't ...
hanging silk scarves on the wall2/13/2008
  Q: I wish to hang silk scarves on the wall, but don't know how. There are 3 kinds, and the sizes are ...
  A: Great question! Textiles of all kinds can be great additions to your wall decor, and they add ...
how to choose picture frames and matts?2/12/2008
  Q: Besides personal preferences, how do I choose the colors (let's not talk about texture yet at this ...
  A: This is one of those challenging questions to answer, for two reasons: 1. For the most part, the ...
Mixing Modern with Antique Frames on Collage2/8/2008
  Q: We have a stairway tall wall that currently has 3 of the Pottery Barn modern-ish wide black frames ...
  A: Sounds you're on a good track! Stairway installations are very tricky, so don't feel bad if you're ...
poster frame1/20/2008
  Q: I just recieved a 21 x 62 inch poster and was wondering if you would know of any possible ways to ...
  A: Great question! So, to begin, yes, you can build a frame that big. Frame moulding comes in up to ...
plexiglass1/19/2008
  Q: Can plexiglass be used when framing watercolors? Thanks.
  A: As far as my knowledge goes, I see no reason why you wouldn't use plexi-glas on a watercolor. ...
"Floating" art within the frame1/15/2008
  Q: I'd like to frame my large serigraph print (39 x 39") with frame space and so the edges of the ...
  A: Sounds like you have a great project to undertake.. Is the art a work you made, or did you ...
framing1/14/2008
  Q: Should I go with a dark green wood frame or a gold tones frame. Do you have another suggestion. My ...
  A: Happy new year! and thanks for the question! Without seeing the piece itself, I can give you a few ...
decorating stairway wall1/10/2008
  Q: I don't know what to do with this wall. I'm not particularly fond of family pix on that wall. Should ...
  A: Happy new year, and thanks for the question. This stairwell task can be a challenge, to say the ...
Cutting Linen Liners1/7/2008
  Q: I make my own frames, and am trying to use linen liners for my Canvas prints. I alway get fraying ...
  A: Great question! The linen liner is the bain of many framers existances, so don't feel like this is ...
preservation/framing of art deco litho1/4/2008
  Q: I recently bought a vintage art deco print (litho?)- very stylized image of Salome holding a tray ...
  A: your new piece sounds gorgeous.. Salome is one of my favorite art divas too! So, as for the issues ...
Stairway gallery framing1/4/2008
  Q: My question is can I mix types of frames in the same color family. For instance, I sticking to ...
  A: Yes, for sure I think you can combine b&w and sepia toned photos, as well as black frames and brown ...
Hanging art above gas fireplace1/4/2008
  Q: We just moved into a new apartment and we have a lovely gas fireplace. We run the fire for hours at ...
  A: and happy new year to you too! Thanks for the question, and congrats on the ne wmove and having an ...
Stairway gallery framing1/3/2008
  Q: My question is can I mix types of frames in the same color family. For instance, I sticking to ...
  A: All great questions! As for the use of color, (and as a framer AND a professional photographer), I ...
Stairway gallery framing1/2/2008
  Q: My question is can I mix types of frames in the same color family. For instance, I sticking to ...
  A: Installation dilemas are tough, but the struggle is really worthwhile once you get through it! ...
mounting exotic foreign art12/9/2007
  Q: Sara, A client has given us three pieces of artwork he obtained in Ethiopia. They are squares of ...
  A: Sounds like you have three unusual and very cool pieces of artwork to enjoy! As for the framing and ...
Trim original to fit frame?11/12/2007
  Q: We have several original prints from an artist we like. On two of them, the actual picture is pretty ...
  A: what a dilema! This is a framers bad dream.. A struggle that has gone on for sooo long, and ...
pastel paintings11/11/2007
  Q: Glass is heavy and breaks. Acrylic is full of static electricity which pulls pastel dust to it. Do ...
  A: that is a really good question, and one that has caused a lot of debates between framers over the ...
stairway decorating11/7/2007
  Q: we have a curved stairway. Its not a straight line. However, I love the way pottery barn shows ...
  A: I think these prints are very pretty! I probably wouldn't mix them with photos, though, as the ...
stairway decorating11/7/2007
  Q: we have a curved stairway. Its not a straight line. However, I love the way pottery barn shows ...
  A: what a good question! Well, I went to pottery barns website and saw the bird prints in the dark ...
Hanging Paintings11/3/2007
  Q: I’m trying to hang three large, but not heavy, oil canvases on my wall. The problem is, I can't ...
  A: Good question! Well your lucky they aren't too heavy, b/c if they were you'd have to go the ...
just wondering10/14/2007
  Q: i would like to know what you think is the best way to display a a very important magazine, also ...
  A: good question.. without actually seeing the magazine, i can give you some recommendations based on ...
framing cross-stitch10/2/2007
  Q: Sara I have an antique cross-stitch sampler that my grandmother did around the 1920’s. It is ...
  A: It sounds like you have a beautiful piece to preserve, and I'm glad you asked about it! so, the main ...

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