Guild Certified Framers
You’ve seen the Fine Art Trade Guild’s Certified Framer logo on our other web pages…but what does it actually mean for you?
In 2 words, it means:
Quality and Knowledge.
Since 1910, the Fine Art Trade Guild has set the benchmark for quality framing and in 2015 introduced a new Guild Certified Framer exam for framers who want to offer their customers superior craftsmanship, the highest-quality materials, and expert advice they can trust.
That’s exactly how we’ve always approached the framing business so we were extremely proud to become (as of 2023), the only two Guild Certified Framers in Aberdeen.
As Guild Certified Framers, you know that we haven’t just passed the initial exam — we’ve also committed to rigorous continuing professional development to keep our skills fresh, our knowledge up to date, and our customer services standards impeccable. We’ve also signed up to the Guild’s ArtSure scheme which is designed to maintain the same exacting standards in digital fine art printing.
So you can entrust your artwork to us with complete confidence.
Want to find the right frame for your artwork? Make an appointment now.
If you’d like to know more about the Fine Art Trade Guild, keep reading for more info.
The 4 Levels of Framing as set out by the Fine Art Trade Guild.
Level 1 (Ultimate level)
This is the highest quality framing available, and is the best choice for any high value or irreplaceable artwork or artefact.
At this level we use only premium grade materials that offer at least 35 years protection under normal conditions, and all processes are intended to be fully reversible. This means that the framed work can be returned to its former state within that timescale, assuming that the artwork is not inherently unstable.
If you’re not sure whether this is the right level of framing for your artwork, we’d be happy to advise.
Level 2 (High level)
This is our preferred minimum level of workmanship.
By using conservation-quality materials and the best techniques, we can give your work protection from physical and mechanical damage, airborne pollution, and acids that are often generated by certain framing materials.
Level 2 framing requires that all processes affecting the artwork are fully reversible and should offer protection for 20 years in normal conditions.
This level is suitable for objects and artworks that are to be preserved for future generations, collectables, original artwork, and limited edition prints of moderate to high value.
Level 3 (Mid-level)
Level 3 framing can visually enhance the artwork and will give a moderate level of protection from physical and mechanical damage, airborne pollution, and acid damage. The processes used don’t have to be reversible.
This level of framing is suitable for replaceable artwork of limited commercial and/or moderate sentimental value.
Level 4 (Low level)
Level 4 framing provides a basic frame at minimum cost. There is no requirement to provide any protection to the artwork, and basic materials and/or work methods – which do not have to be reversible – are used at this level.
Because of the low standards of quality and protection this offers, this isn’t a level we offer at Iain Glennie Framing.
The Fine Art Trade Guild’s Code of Ethics.
As certified framers and members of the Fine Art Trade Guild, these are our key commitments to you.
We will:
- Observe the highest standards of integrity in all transactions.
- Protect the interests of our customers.
- Avoid the use of false, confusing, inaccurate, or misleading terms, descriptions, and claims.
- Make every effort to reach an amicable and speedy solution in the event of a dispute with a customer.
- Maintain adequate insurance protection to suit our business and customers’ needs.
- Represent ourselves as a member of the Guild only whilst in membership.
- Maintain and enhance the reputation, standing, and good name of the Guild and its membership.
- Contribute to the advancements of the profession through development and support of Guild standards, the education of fellow members, and consumers.
If you’d like to learn more about the work we do as Guild Certified Framers, explore our range of services:
