How to Frame Your Art Using a Frame with Glass and a Mat [Adult Workshop]

Framing your art with glass and a mat is a framing choice used for works on paper, of paper, prints, photos and anything that needs to be mounted and protected by the glass. Framing art and photos this way requires using the proper materials and correct techniques to ensure the piece is framed properly, securely and attractively.

During this 2-hour class the instructor will demonstrate this type of framing using the hinging technique and completing the framing process by showing the correct way to wire a piece for exhibit. After the demonstration, the students will frame one of their own pieces while the instructor assists.

Students should register at least a week before class to give themselves enough time to purchase or collect the supplies they will need.

It is recommended, but not required, to take “The Basics of Framing” before taking this class.

Materials List:

• Cotton towel or tablecloth to lay on table to protect frame and glass/acrylic
• Finished Artwork  (No Wet Paint)
• Wooden or Metal Frame with glass or acrylic and closed backing
• For cleaning Glass – “Sparkle” paper towels or lint-free cloth & 1 spray bottle of water or glass cleaner (ex. Windex)
• For cleaning Acrylic - Cotton cloth & Acrylic cleaner
• 1-2” Paintbrush or Static-free Brush
• 1 Acid-free Cut Mat:
  • 3 Measurements To Consider For Cut Mats:
  • Outside Size of Mat = Size of Inside of Frame
  • Inside Size of Mat = Size of Image that will Show
  • Border (Window) Measurement for Each Side
• Acid-free Mat Board for Mounting (Same size as inside of frame)
• Acid-free White Artist's Tape
• Acid-free (Photo Safe) Removable Double-sided Tape
• Measuring Tape
• #2 Pencil
• 2 D-rings with screws or 2 Eyehooks (Screw Eyes)
• Picture Hanging Wire
  • 10-20 lbs. is for light  
  • 30-40 lbs. is for medium
  • 50 lbs.+ is for heavy.  
• 1 Phillips Head Screwdriver and/or 1 Flat Head Screwdriver
• Scissors and/or Wire Cutter

FOR WOODEN FRAMES:  

• One 1-1/2”–2” Nail & Hammer or Small Drill

OPTIONAL:

• 1 Pliers
• Cotton Gloves or New/Clean Garden Gloves – to protect against fingerprints and cuts

ANY QUESTIONS:  Contact Hillary at hbkorig@hotmail.com

About the Teaching Artist: This class is given by Hillary Binder-Klein, a self-taught artist who has been creating art her whole life and framing it on her own for about 35 years. She has exhibited her art, framed by her, at art shows and galleries throughout New Jersey since 1983.  Hillary is an associate member of the Guild of Creative Art, a member of the Belmar Arts Council, the Art Alliance of Monmouth and the Monmouth County Arts Council. Hillary has taught at the Teen Arts Festivals in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex.  She has also taught at the Teen Arts Festival in Union for the last 13 years.