Category: Blog

At Metropolitan Frame Company, we know better than most that custom picture framing is an art form in and of itself. Our passionate experts continually navigate the delicate balance that lies between aesthetic appeal and preservation. In the following article, we delve into the nuances of this balancing act and how it shapes the world of custom picture framing.

Aesthetics in Picture Framing

The aesthetic appeal of a custom frame has the power to transform an artwork. When handled correctly, it not only complements the piece but also enhances its visual impact, helping it to better resonate with viewers. Here’s how we achieve this at Metropolitan Frame Company:

Material Choices

The choice of material is key in framing. Wood, metal, or acrylic frames each create unique visual impressions to go along with the art inside. While wood frames lend a warm, traditional appeal, metal frames are often used to project a sleek, modern vibe. Acrylic frames, meanwhile, are perfect for a minimalist, contemporary aesthetic.

Frame Design

Beyond material choice, the design and style of a frame greatly influence its aesthetic. From ornate, detailed designs for a classical look to clean, straight lines for a minimalist appeal, the possibilities are endless.

Color Coordination

Selecting the right color for a frame can significantly enhance an artwork’s aesthetic. This involves coordinating the frame color with the color palette of the artwork, helping to emphasize certain elements or create harmony.

Preservation in Picture Framing

While aesthetics are vital, preservation is equally important in custom picture framing. At Metropolitan Frame Company, we use several techniques to ensure your artwork’s longevity:

Use of Acid-Free Materials

Acid-free matting and backing materials are crucial to protect artworks from discoloration and deterioration. Our high-quality, acid-free materials are specifically designed to preserve your pieces.

UV-Protective Glazing

Artworks can be susceptible to UV damage over time. We utilize UV-protective glass or acrylic glazing to shield your art from harmful UV rays, preventing fading and maintaining the vibrancy of colors.

Appropriate Sizing

Proper sizing of mats and frames helps protect your artwork from physical damage. We ensure adequate “breathing” space for your art within the frame, guarding against potential warping or buckling.

The Balancing Act

Striking the perfect balance between aesthetics and preservation is no easy task. It’s about creating a visually appealing display that also safeguards the artwork’s integrity. Here’s how we achieve this balance:

Conservation Framing

Conservation framing is a technique that prioritizes both aesthetic appeal and preservation. It involves the use of reversible methods and preservation-grade materials, ensuring that the artwork remains unaltered while still looking visually stunning.

Custom Solutions

Every artwork is unique and requires a tailored approach. We work closely with our clients to understand their aesthetic preferences and the preservation needs of their artwork, crafting custom solutions that serve both aspects perfectly.

Continuous Learning

The world of custom framing is ever-evolving, with new materials, techniques, and trends continually emerging. By staying abreast of industry advancements, we can offer our clients the most effective and appealing framing solutions.

Metropolitan Frame Company: Your Partner in Custom Picture Framing

At Metropolitan Frame Company, we understand the importance of the balance between aesthetics and preservation. Our expert framers are committed to providing beautifully crafted, preservation-focused framing solutions that honor your artwork and its significance.

Whether you’re an art collector, artist, or simply someone who appreciates fine art, we’re here to help guide you through the framing process. We invite you to explore the possibilities of custom picture framing and discover the transformative power of the perfect frame.

To learn more about our custom picture framing services, contact Metropolitan Frame Company today.

A beautifully framed picture is worth more than a thousand words. It preserves memories, showcases art, and enhances the aesthetic appeal of homes and offices. However, over time, picture frames, like everything else, can show signs of wear and tear. Picture frame restoration in Denver, CO, can breathe new life into your cherished frames, restoring their original beauty and charm.

Understanding the Value of Picture Frame Restoration

From ornate antique frames to modern minimalist styles, picture frames add an extra layer of character to the pictures they hold. Whether it’s a beloved family portrait, a prized piece of art, or a cherished souvenir from your travels, the frame is an essential element that protects and enhances the picture.

However, age, environmental factors, and handling can lead to a variety of issues in picture frames. From scratches and fading to missing details, these signs of damage can detract from the beauty of the picture and the overall aesthetic of your space. Picture frame restoration in Denver, CO, comes to the rescue in such scenarios, utilizing specialist techniques to restore frames to their original splendor.

Picture frame restoration is both an art and a craft. It involves an intricate process of repair, cleaning, stabilization, and sometimes even the reproduction of missing elements to bring back the original charm and elegance of the picture frame.

In Denver, CO, highly skilled and experienced restoration professionals like the ones at Metropolitan Frame Company are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to restore a wide range of frames. We pay careful attention to the frame’s style, material, and historical period to ensure the restoration work is accurate and respectful to its original design.

The Benefits of Picture Frame Restoration

Restoring picture frames is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about preserving memories, showcasing art as it was meant to be seen, and honoring history. Restored picture frames can once again take pride of place in your home or office, contributing to the décor and ambiance.

Investing in picture frame restoration in Denver, CO, can also increase the value of your art pieces, making it a worthwhile consideration for collectors and art enthusiasts.

What Metropolitan Frame Can Do for Your Frame

With decades of experience creating and restoring frames of all shapes, sizes and eras, we are proven experts at picture frame restoration and the leading provider of such services in Denver. From structural repairs, to recreation and replacement of ornaments, to paint and gesso touch-ups, to protection against further damage in the future, trust Metropolitan Frame to bring your picture frame back to life.

Whether you have an antique frame that needs a touch of renewal, or a modern frame that requires a bit of repair, Denver, CO’s picture frame restoration professionals are here to help. By trusting them with your treasured frames, you’re not just ensuring their preservation but also keeping your memories alive, picture perfect, for many more years to come.

When it comes to preserving and restoring art pieces, painting restoration is an essential process. Many art pieces, especially those created using paint, are prone to damage due to various factors, including exposure to light, humidity, and physical contact. Painting restoration involves a variety of methods aimed at repairing damaged paintings and preserving their aesthetic value. In this blog post, we will discuss the various methods used in painting restoration.

Cleaning

One of the most critical steps in painting restoration is cleaning the painting. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime accumulate on the surface of a painting, obscuring its original colors and details. The cleaning process involves using various solvents and techniques to remove this dirt and grime without damaging the painting.

There are several methods used in cleaning paintings, including aqueous cleaning, solvent cleaning, and mechanical cleaning. Aqueous cleaning involves the use of water and specialized detergents to remove dirt and grime from the painting. Solvent cleaning involves the use of solvents, such as mineral spirits, to dissolve and remove dirt and grime from the painting’s surface. Mechanical cleaning involves the use of soft brushes and erasers to gently remove dirt and grime from the painting.

Modern cleaning methods can be done safely in regard to the painting’s condition. While it may be easy to imagine paint being swept away with the same brush that is sweeping away the built-up dirt, in truth professional painting restorers can clean paintings without damaging the painting in any way. This is one of the largest reasons professional painting restoration is far more preferred than an amateur, DIY-style restoration.

Consolidation

Paintings that have suffered damage due to physical mistreatment, poorly-done repair jobs or renovations, or other factors may require consolidation. Consolidation involves the use of specialized adhesives to stabilize the paint layers on the surface of the painting. This process can help prevent further damage to the painting and preserve its original aesthetic value.

There are several methods used in consolidation, including the use of synthetic adhesives, such as acrylic resins, and natural adhesives, such as animal glues — the same type of glue used during the time frame of many paints we restore at Metropolitan Frame. Modern synthetic adhesives are preferred because they are more stable and less prone to yellowing over time.

Varnishing

Varnishing is the final step in painting restoration. Varnishing involves applying a protective layer of varnish over the painting’s surface to protect it from environmental factors, such as light and humidity. Varnishing also helps to enhance the painting’s colors and details, giving it a more vibrant and polished appearance.

There are several types of varnishes used in painting restoration, including natural resin varnishes, such as dammar and mastic, and synthetic varnishes, such as polyurethane and acrylic. Natural resin varnishes are preferred because they are more stable and less prone to yellowing over time.

Painting restoration is an essential process in preserving and restoring art pieces. It involves various methods, including cleaning, consolidation, inpainting, and varnishing, aimed at repairing damaged paintings and preserving their aesthetic value. If you have a valuable art piece that requires restoration, it is essential to seek the services of a professional painting restoration company to ensure that the process is done correctly and effectively.

When it comes to displaying and preserving fine art, the right custom frame can make all the difference. A custom frame company like Metropolitan Frame Company can assist you in choosing the perfect frame and matting to enhance your fine art and protect it for years to come. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on selecting the best custom frame for your artwork and preserving your art to help you get the most out of your investment.

Choosing the Right Frame and Matting

The first step in preserving and displaying fine art is selecting the right frame and matting. The frame should always complement the art, not overpower it. Metropolitan Frame Company can help you choose a frame that is the right size, material, style, and color for the artwork. We can also help you select matting that will enhance the artwork and protect it from damage.

When it comes to matting, acid-free matting is essential for preserving the artwork. Acid-free matting will not discolor or degrade the artwork over time. Also, consider the color of the matting, it should complement the artwork and not clash with it. At Metropolitan Frame Company we will also help you choose a matting color that will enhance the artwork’s colors and make it stand out.

Proper Care for Custom Framed Fine Art

Proper care is essential for preserving custom-framed fine art. Fine art must be kept in a stable environment with controlled temperature and humidity levels. So you must avoid hanging the artwork in direct sunlight or in high-moisture areas, as this can cause fading and damage. You should also avoid hanging the artwork near heat sources, such as radiators or air conditioning vents, as this can cause the artwork to warp or crack.

Additionally, many people looking to preserve fine art will use UV-resistant protective glass or acrylic to protect their art from fading.

In addition, dusting the artwork regularly will help keep it clean and protected. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe down the artwork, matting, and frame. Be sure to use a light touch when cleaning the artwork, as too much pressure can damage it.

Enhancing Your Art’s Display With Lighting & Placement

One of the most important aspects of preserving and displaying fine art in custom frames is lighting. The right lighting can make the artwork stand out and enhance its colors and details. A custom frame company can help you choose the right lighting to highlight the artwork and make it the focal point of the room.

When it comes to placement, it’s important to choose a location that is well-lit and easy to view. Avoid hanging the artwork in dark corners or in areas that are difficult to see. Instead, choose a location that is well-lit and easy to view, such as above a fireplace or in a hallway.

In conclusion, a custom frame company can help you preserve and display fine art in a way that enhances its beauty and protects it for years to come. By choosing the right frame and matting, properly caring for the artwork, using the right lighting, and choosing the right placement, you can get the most out of your investment and enjoy your artwork for many years to come. If you’re looking for a custom frame company that specializes in framing fine art, look no further, we have the expertise and experience to help you make your art stand out.

The frame is last touch given to any work of art. It serves to protect the art within, but also to accentuate and provide emphasis to the work. Choosing the proper frame for your work of art is an important step in its preservation, presentation, and longevity — and the sheer amount of options you might face can make for a bit of an overwhelming feeling.

Between the nature of your art, the nature of the frame, your work’s age and condition, and a number of other factors, finding the perfect frame may not be quite as easy as you hoped. To help you along in that process, we’ve put together a brief guide that will help you decide on the best frame for your art. We’ll go over what you should consider about you or your room’s sense of style, which type of frame may fit your painting the best, and things to consider depending on your work’s medium.

Your Style

Naturally, the most important aspect of a frame is its presentation. The important question to ask yourself in regards to your frame’s style is that of how it will incorporate into its greater setting — what is the color scheme of its future room or wall? Does the room have a clean and uncluttered aesthetic, or a more maximalist one? Are any other frames or decorations present already?

Try to find a frame that fits both the mood and aesthetic of the art, but also of the room itself. Remember that your frame doesn’t itself need to stand out, but rather compliment and draw the eye toward the art that it holds. Depending on your tastes, you may, for example, choose a frame that keeps things simple with grays or muted colors, and lets the art speak for itself. Or you may choose a more prominent, one with brighter tones for a splash of vibrancy and color in your room. For a room-defining piece, you could make a statement with an eye-catching frame with distinct colors, shapes or patterns.

Styles will of course vary widely from person to person, but we encourage you to be creative and even think outside the box when considering your frame and its style. Your artwork itself may be the star of the show, but a good frame can make for a great supporting actor.

Frame Aspects

Choosing a frame for art can be a long process, when you consider the needs and best practices of the art at hand. For more standard works of art, that aren’t at immediate or increased risk of decay or damage, its worth asking yourself how your frame might best accentuate your art. For such works, one important aspect is the frame’s matting.

The matting, or the blank ‘margin space’ that the work will sit atop, provides your art more physical space on your wall, and nonverbally demands the eye’s attention on the work’s behalf. Typically, the matting is a pure-white space that sits almost flush with the art, but liberties can be taken with the matting as well.

Having the work sit above the matting can make it look as if it’s floating, an especially striking look for photographs and small works. You can also achieve depth by having your art sit within your matting, as if it’s nestled within it. Or, you may choose to forego matting and have the frame flush with the art itself. The size of the matting may easily vary, from a smaller matting for larger, lighter paintings, to a larger matting for when you want your vibrant colors and textures to really pop.

You should also bring the frame’s material into consideration. A matte plastic or refined wood is an ever-popular choice, but you can also go for something less orthodox. Experiment with unique facades, makes, shapes and other facets of your frame if you feel you out-of-the-box may be more your style.

Art Considerations

Not every work of art is a flat work on a traditional medium. As such, if you have a work of a medium that demands special care, finding an appropriate frame should be at the top of your frame priority list.

For example, oil paintings don’t typically stick to normal framing conventions. Consensus is that oil paintings should go without full, glass-sealed frames to maintain the integrity of the oil paint. Standard oil painting frames will typically forego glass and matting, opting instead for a frame flush with the painting. This is just one example, but keep your art’s unique needs in mind if it has any.

Frames for objects are becoming more popular as well. As opposed to paintings, which typically have frames that are flat frames to match similarly flat works, sculptures, objects and other three-dimensional framed objects need a different approach. While some flatter objects may look natural in a painting-style frame, albeit one with considerable depth, many works will demand something unique to its form factor. Sculptures and other three-dimensional works can vary widely in size and shape — click here for our online gallery of sculpture frames.

A true framing artisan recognizes that a frame must be the natural, integral compliment to a work of art. When readying a piece of fine art for permanent display or preservation, a frame is what will keep it preserved, protected and enshrined for the many years ahead — a strong and high-quality frame should be a high priority for those who collect and display fine art.

At Metropolitan Frame Company, we have specialized in fine art framing for decades, providing a host of framing services for some of Denver’s most prestigious universities and institutions. Read on to see how our framing experts can construction, or even reconstruct, the perfect companion for your piece.

Custom Frames

At the core of our business are our custom frame-building capabilities. We meticulously craft frames of any size and style, taking special care to build a frame to suit the work of art at hand, and that provides all the necessary preservation measures to keep the painting within looking flawless for many years ahead.

From recreations of historical frames, to entirely new creations, our framing artisans have what it takes to provide the unparalleled frames for nearly any work of art — be it a flat print, thickly-applied paint on a canvas, or something three-dimensional. If it can be framed, we at Metropolitan Frame Company will frame it.

Frame Restoration

We believe frames are integral to the art they carry, and so we always aim to restore rather than replace. If you have a work of fine art with a damaged or deteriorating frame, or you were unsatisfied with a previous frame repair attempt, we can help bring it back to its former glory.

At Metropolitan Frame Company, we can perform structural repairs, replace spots of missing gesso, recreate ornamental accents that have since been lost, and add new gliding.

Mirror Framing

Art is beautiful in its own right, but something equally as stunning can be found in a perfectly-framed mirror. Reflecting back the room and everything within it, a mirror can make for a highlight as eye-catching as anything, and a beautiful frame will be what keeps those eyes drawn in.

Just as we can fabricate a frame for any painting, we can accommodate a mirror of any size, and for any purpose — functional, decorative, and anywhere in between. The perfect accent to any floor, ceiling or vanity mirror, one of our handcrafted frames will turn a simple surface into something unforgettable.