Framed

[Tyler Tim]

So you have your finished glass project all done... well almost. It needs a frame.

What are the do's and don't of framing?

Thanks

[Tyler Tim]

Ok from another thread

Looks like a nice chip. How will it be hung - mirror clips, or a hidden backplate, or???

Ok on metal I'd just weld a tab. How is this done... on glass?

[Bill Ames]

Here's the link to the framing I've used on the last 2 signs I've made. I've used the Burnt Sienna and Galactic Blue colors. They have other profiles but I have only used profile #117.

http://www.framing4yourself.com/shop/pr ... al-frames/

I bought some cheap mat to protect the back of the glass and clipped it right in. I was using 1/4" thick glass and it looks fantastic.

Oh....and at the site above it was 1/2 the price of the same stuff from my local framing gallery and it came right to my house.

I thought about making my own frame but it seemed too much work for too little payback once I found the ones listed above.

[Larry White]

I typically do one of three things:

1) Have it professionally framed by a reputable frame shop.
I like to select one that is independently owned. I tend to
avoid places like Aaron Bros. and Michael's, etc. Picking out
the perfect molding can be fun...making a single choice can
sometimes be arduous. The frame either shows off the artwork,
or becomes part of the artwork. Leaving a glass piece in the
hands of a framer can be stressful, but so far, so good. The
resulting professionally framed pieces always end up looking
their best, and are ready to hang!

2) Purchase frames (in good condition) from local swap meets,
estate sales, garage sales, or thrift stores. These can then be
modified, by cutting opposing corners, into the desired size. I
typically protect the back of the glass piece with paper or
cardboard, then usually, a masonite backup panel. I'll then
install "D" ring clips, and or cable for hanging.

3) Make your own frame. Of course you'll need the right tools
and space to do it in. I've made them from haggared old fence
boards, to two by fours, to lengths of trim molding. The resulting
frames can be weathered, stained, faux painted, gilded, etc.

Hope that helps.

[erik winkler]

Leaving a glass piece in the
hands of a framer can be stressful, but so far, so good.

Is Larry's, I hearing you! Haha I knowhow the feeling.
Nowadays I gave THE exact measurements and frame it myself.

[Lee Littlewood]

I've done a few Nielsen frames for glass pieces. The profiles are different widths and depths, and generally either flat-faced or rounded. But they are easy to assemble and fairly sturdy. Also they make a little "lock" that will keep the frame from being lifted off the wall.

I've not used any of the colors, but a couple of the anodized black or grey ones have faded when used outdoors. The metal was fine (maybe drill a few weep holes in the bottom rail), but the anodizing faded gently toward silver - actually sort of nice. But for exterior use I prefer to paint it, although the factory paint job might be fine.