Conservation Framing Course

What will the course cover?

This practical one–day workshop introduces the key principles behind conservation framing and demonstrates how to apply them to a complete framing project.

You will learn how conservation criteria influence each stage of the framing process, from material selection to final sealing.

Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, you will learn:

• How to choose appropriate conservation-grade materials
• How to create a barrier against contaminants
• How to handle and care for artwork throughout the process
• How to create a mount package with a hinged window mount
• Methods of artwork attachment using minimal contact
• How to reverse attachment methods without causing damage
• How to create a sealed environment for artwork, including glazing choices
• How to add a dust cover to the back of the framed package
• How to provide a pocket for provenance or artwork information
• How to use appropriate fixings for hanging this type of frame

These stages reflect the full conservation workflow, emphasising reversibility, protection, and ethical handling standards.

What will I make on the day?

All students will mount and frame a piece of artwork using conservation-approved methods, minimal-contact attachment, and a sealed package, completing the framed work to a ready-to-hang standard by the end of the day.

On the day of the course, to keep everything running quickly and smoothly, the materials will be pre-selected. We use black frames and white mounts for the session, which helps streamline the process and ensures the course flows without too many options to choose from.