WCAF Starts Off Year Right
The 2010 West Coast Art & Frame, held in Las Vegas from January 25-27, was a huge success, surpassing almost everyone’s expectations and offering proof that there is a lot of positive energy in the art and framing industry. Attendees and exhibitors alike seemed filled with renewed optimism as the aisles were filled and new products were proudly displayed on the show floor. The National Conference also remains the largest educational event in the industry, with class attendance up by 10 percent. Read this online.

Darkening Wood through Oxidation
The process of wood oxidation usually takes decades, but the natural wood patina can be enhanced with the right chemical process. In this article, Eric Tollefson explores the different steps necessary to create finishes you would otherwise have to wait a lifetime to see, including the chemicals needed, how to prepare the surface, and sealing the frames to bring out their best.

The Painted Frame as a Work of Art
Not only does a frame physically protect a painting, it also accentuates a painting, forming a perfect partnership. William B. Adair explores how such a harmonic relationship between frame and painting can be established by enhancing a simple frame with a painted finish. Read this online.

Retailing
Ken Baur explains why a well-designed e-mail marketing program can offer the greatest chance to successfully promote your business. He explores how to turn your website into an effective marketing tool, create special incentives, and most importantly reach your clients by focusing on their own stories and projects. In this day of inexpensive online communication, learn how to deliver your message to clients effectively and economically. Read this online

Preservation Practices
Hinging is a vital part of preservation framing, and making up hinges ahead of time can help save time and make hinging much simpler. Cooking and storing starch paste, wet cutting with paste to produce hinges with feathered edges, and using blotter cards to properly dry by hand are just a few of the steps that Hugh Phibbs discusses in exploring how to successfully create pre-pasted hinges.

Frame Design
Greg Perkins explores a fresher, more contemporary way of looking at wall groupings. This article offers an in-depth look at selecting frames for groupings based on art, mirrors, and photos, as well as selecting the proper proportions to help make your groupings unique and attractive in both your shop and your home.

Style Snapshot
A look at a frame, its characteristics, and history. Heidi L. Knodle discusses a Rococo sweep frame from 18th century England. Such frames, originally developed during the Louis XV period in France, were imported into England after the war of 1756-1763 and soon became an important framing style there.