The Fine Art Trade Guild is the professional
body for the art and framing trade.
It sets standards for the framing trade that are internationally recognised, and has set
up and runs the Guild Commended Framer (GCF) exams. It has produced Five Levels of Framing as guidance to framers and
customers, has been heavily involved in producing standards for mountboards, and is currently producing standards for tapes
and adhesives.
Guild Commended Framer (GCF) – The GCF exams are recognised worldwide and several countries have resident examiners. There are now 4 exams: GCF; GCF Advanced Mountcutting, Design and Function; GCF Advanced Textiles; and GCF
Advanced Conservation. These qualifications indicate to customers that this is
a committed framer capable of high quality work.
The Five Levels of Framing
are as follows:
MUSEUM LEVEL The ultimate
level of protection for museum-quality works and artwork of high value or historical interest to be preserved for the future
CONSERVATION LEVEL A
high level of protection for collectable artwork and items to be kept for future generations. This is the level of framing
generally used in this workshop
COMMENDED LEVEL A moderate level of protection for replaceable artwork of limited value
BUDGET LEVEL Visually
acceptable frames with no attempt to protect the artwork or its long-term appearance
MINIMUM LEVEL Suitable for temporary display only
