The largest frame manufactured at Wyman Frame is now on display for all to see at the Oklahoma History Center.
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Custom framing questions
Do you need to have a picture framed?
We know the idea of going to a custom picture frame shop can be a little unsettling. Questions you might have are:
How much will this cost?
Do I have to know what I want?
What if I don’t know anything about art or colors?
The only thing you need to know before walking into the shop with your art is where it might hang and your budget for the project.
Usually, the first thing we ask is, “Do you have anything in mind?” Maybe you do and maybe you do not. Either way, that is just a starting point. We will ask a few more questions, try some combinations and give you some different pricing so you can make a decision. The process is not long or hard, usually taking about 10-20 minutes.
Beware: many folks who give it a try find that it is a lot of fun! Having one picture framed can start a person thinking of other things they would like to have framed or even re-framed to update their space.
Staff at Wyman Frame, a division of Dale Rogers Training Center, have more than 40 years’ combined experience.
Carla Folks works at Dale Rogers Training Center Custom Framing. Carla has been a Certified Picture Framer since 1989 and has framed for DRTC since 2013 where she trains/supervises people with disabilities on various projects.
DRTC is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,100 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
Big art is the trend
I recently spoke with a local artists group about framing solutions for exhibitions. During the visit, I also demonstrated some simple framing techniques. One of the topics I covered was size. Artists are creating oversize pieces and buyers are interested in buying them because houses and businesses keep getting larger with huge wall space and tall ceilings. There are some things to consider from a framing standpoint.
Mat boards
- Mat board regular size is 32” x 40” with hundreds of colors and textures
- Anything larger than 32” x 40” is referred to as oversize
- Mats are available in limited colors in 40” x 60”
I have recently encountered art much larger that the customer wanted a mat or the look of a mat. A linen liner or stacked frames can give the impression of a mat that gives a resting place for the eye between the frame and the art. 40” x 60” is the maximum for standard glass. I usually recommend plexiglass for larger pieces. It is a little lighter and the best advantage is less chance of breakage.
Weight
Another thing to consider about framing oversize pieces is the weight.
- Frame must be stable enough to hold the weight of the art, glazing and backing
- Framing material should be appropriate for the size; polystyrene or a light pine might not have the structure needed for the larger pieces
- Size can be very limiting for each aspect of the framing package
Many times the art is brought to us rolled and can be quite a surprise at how large it can be once it is framed. If you do not have a large vehicle you may need to arrange for another delivery option. Hanging a large piece takes some special care. It is usually a two-person job involving measuring and special hanging hardware designed to hold a weighty frame.
Carla Folks works at Dale Rogers Training Center Custom Framing. Carla has been a Certified Picture Framer since 1989 and has framed for DRTC since 2013 where she trains/supervises people with disabilities on various projects.
DRTC is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,100 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
Q&A with Wyman Frame
Wyman Frame, a division of nonprofit Dale Rogers Training Center, manufactures custom picture frames while providing jobs and training opportunities for people with disabilities. Carla Folks, Certified Picture Framer (CPF), Professional Picture Framers Association, has framed for Wyman Frame since 2013.
Question: How do people with disabilities assist with the frame-making process?
Carla: We have trained many people in cutting moulding and glass. They also assemble frames, install hanging hardware and wrap them for delivery. Our individuals like seeing the stacks of things being done. They get to tell their friends, ‘I get to work on this. This is cool.’
Q: How do you pass along some of your framing expertise to those served at Wyman Frame?
A: It’s very adaptable. Sometimes what works for me, doesn’t work for them. It’s a matter of finding what works for each person, because we’re so unique and learn differently.
Q: What’s the difference between a ready-made frame and custom framing?
A: For ready-made, you are more or less on your own, and the quality of materials can drastically affect the condition of your artwork over time. Custom framing costs a little more, but using archival components can help ensure your items last as long as possible. Our expertise can help walk you through the process of choosing a mat and frame that will perfectly compliment the artwork and look terrific wherever you display it.
Q: What are some of the most unusual pieces you have ever framed?
A: My favorite was framing a wedding dress. I’ve also framed items brought in by an elderly lady that her mother saved in the sinking of the Titanic. She had a menu, some jewelry and a book. It was very interesting hearing the story and seeing the items.
Learn more about Wyman Frame at WymanFrame.org, or visit them at 2502 N. Utah Ave., Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm.
Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs 1,000 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
