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Pieter Swanepoel Studio +27 28 316 2537 / +27 82 578 6877 / 1 Soutpan Close, Vermont, Western Cape, South Africa / info@pictureframes-sa.co.za
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Once an order is placed, I start the manufacturing process, using either pre-shaped mouldings or by precision cutting them out of rough, bare wood planks (I use Obeche from North Africa). I then join and sand the frame, mix and apply the materials to be used and gild, paint or finish the frame – everything tailored to your requirements!
The manufacturing process of frames can vary largely, i.e. a painted box frame vastly differs from a gilded scoop frame or a replicated ornate period style frame. However, some of the processes are the same. The manufacturing is done according to traditional methods and techniques and each frame is finished in time-tested materials. See how some of my frames came about here.
The corners of all of my frames, are joined making use of a combination of methods to ensure a lasting joint. The joints are reinforced by any combination of the following methods: glue, v-nails, dovetails and dowels.
Once the frame has been cut and joined, all or any gaps or holes are filled and then the frame is sanded to a smooth surface.
The sanded frame is then usually covered in a number of layers of gesso consisting of a gelatin size and french chalk mixture. Once fully dried the gesso is sanded to a very smooth surface.
Painted frames then receive various paint washes to achieve the desired effects and colours. Frames to receive gold or silver leafing (or other metals) is first covered in several layers of bole over the gesso. This is a natural clay which is required in the gilding process but can also be used to provide a desired base colour for the gilding.
If required, the gold or silver leafing is burnished to a shiny surface or it can be distressed to give the frame an antique appearance.
Waxes, varnishes and/or other chemical substances are finally used for protection and to achieve the desired effects. Most of the frames are either painted, gilded in traditional gold, silver or other metal leaf or a combination of finishes. Some frames are only stained or coloured and waxed.
The end result is a unique, closed-corner frame, customised to best enhance your work of art. Obviously on the stained/coloured wood frames it is not possible to have seamless corners.
