Yes, we do use a computer controlled mountcutter, we also use computers for pricing our work, updating our website, social media and accounts. However we are still skilled craftsmen, and we’ve got Fine Art Trade Guild certificates to prove it!

Many years ago when we started picture framing, the traditional method of joining the frame together involved the use of nails and a hammer. Then in the 1980’s along came a ‘fancy’ piece of equipment called an underpinner, which joins frames from underneath. It makes a far neater job. It doesn’t take the framers skill away – it’s just a different skill that’s needed to join the frame.

The same goes for computerised mountcutting.

The computerised mountcutter allows us to do things that would be pretty much impossible by hand. It doesn’t take the mountcutting skill away, it’s a new additional skill that’s required to design the mount and use the equipment.

We embrace technology. It offers extra benefits. For example, cars aren’t built the same way they were 100 years ago, and there’s not many of us admit to watching betamax video now!

Oh, and yes, we do still have a good old fashioned hand operated mountcutter which is in daily use – we wouldn’t want to lose that skill, would we?

The short answer is ‘Yes’.

Medals of any kind are normally awarded for some kind of outstanding achievement. It’s such a shame that so many are consigned to a drawer, and almost forgotten.

When framing any kind of medals, our remit as truly professional framers is to ensure that they remain undamaged and preserved for future generations to enjoy. This sometimes calls for some arcane (look it up!) methods to be used for fixing.

For anything which already has, or might in the future have historical or sentimental significance, we recommend framing to at least Conservation level. The materials and work practices employed mean that you are helping to preserve your items for future generations. Use of inferior materials might well be cheaper, but we don’t think it’s worth the risk.

The short answer is ‘Yes’.

We LOVE fabric artwork! You invest many hours into creating this type of artwork, so the framing should respect and preserve the work you have put in.

Ian’s experience in textile design and construction with DAKS-Simpson (City & Guilds certified, 1976-1980) means he has a long & well founded knowledge of how to work with fabric, and just what should and shouldn’t be done with it.

As with any job, there is a right and a wrong way to do it. The wrong way is invariably cheaper, but will have dire consequences for the fabric in years to come. We’ll always take the time to explain your options, and the pros and cons that go with them.

….my picture is roughly (wave hands in air) this size / I just want a basic frame / I want your cheapest frame

We treat picture framing as a precision job. We have a vast selection of real wood frames on show. Your choice of mount colours and combinations stretches into many hundreds as well.

Add these together with an unknown individual size, and you’ll see why it becomes a little unprofessional on our part to just guess. The chances are high that we would get it wrong – it’s impossible to hold prices in our head – that’s why we have a computerised pricing system in place.

And to be perfectly honest, the cheapest, most basic frame (and yes, we do have them) might well be totally unsuitable for your picture anyway.

We’d be delighted to spend time with you and your picture. We can look at a few options and prices, and we’re sure you will find something which suits your picture, your wall, and your budget!

Sometimes we think so!

Certified Framers have been awarded an emblem of excellence by the art and framing industry’s trade association, the Fine Art Trade Guild.

The Guild Certified Framer scheme requires participants to commit to CPD (Continual Professional Development) and recertification takes place every four years. Working with a Certified Framer will guarantee you that the framer is up to date with current industry standards and practice.

The primary aim of the Certified Framer scheme is to help the public select a professional framer who will apply a high level of expertise to the conservation and display of their artwork.

As well as the basic Certified Framer qualification, there are three Advanced modules which cover Conservation Framing, Textile Framing and Mount Design and Function. Each of the Advanced disciplines is subject to a three and a half hour in depth examination, and passing the examination allows the candidate to use the designation GCF(APF) Adv.

We are the only framing workshop in Scotland to have all three Advanced qualifications covered.

At Ian Kenny Framing, the only people who will frame your work are:
Ian Kenny GCF(APF) Adv.
Andrew McLaren GCF(APF) Adv.
Steven Hanton GCF(APF)

No, they are not!

MDF frames have their place, it’s just not here. You’ll get them (and compressed cardboard ones) from major Home Furnishing stores, DIY stores, some department stores and even some bespoke framers. MDF frames are not designed to be a long term solution – hence the low selling price.

Plastic (or composite) frames are made from a cocktail of chemicals and petro-chemical by-products. They are cheap, but can sometimes look pretty good. However both the manufacturing and end disposal of this type of frame is not particularly eco-friendly.

Our frames are all real wood – most commonly Obeche – a sustainable hardwood often used in sauna interiors, and also used by the Gibson Guitar Corporation for the fingerboard of certain Les Paul models. We also work with solid oak, ash, and maple and can stain and finish these in-house to your exact requirements.

All our timber is acquired from responsibly managed sources.