Guild Commended Framer

The Guild Commended Framer programme is internationally recognised as the qualification for the framing industry. Employers use GCF to set standards, as well as to assess the skills and aptitudes of staff framers. Framers use GCF to confirm their abilities to employers and customers, as well as to enhance their standing in the industry.

What we are trying to achieve?

• A consistent bench-mark of standards
• An informed choice of different levels of framing to suit customers' individual needs
• To enable customers to compare quotations on a 'like-for-like' basis. It is essential to demonstrate why a job may be priced above that given by a competitor and why a framer is recommending a particular level of framing
• A marketing tool; to show customers there is more to framing than meets the eye
• To educate framers
• To assist the Guild when arbitrating in disputes revolving round whether a given specification has been met

The specifications address:

• The visual appearance of the frame, now and in the future
• The role of the frame in protecting artwork from damage (primarily caused by airborne pollution, acids generated by framing materials, inappropriate framing techniques, UV light, humidity and damp, insects and mould)

The Five Levels of Framing

You have a choice about how much or how little you want to safeguard your picture. There are Five Levels of Framing for you to choose from as the following summary explains:

Museum - The ultimate protection for your artwork

Conservation - Helping preserve your artwork for future generations

Commended - Guarantees a degree of protection, with design playing an important part

Budget - Visually pleasing, but offering no long-term protection

Minimum - Putting economy first


Ask your framer about which level to choose

This information is taken from the Fine Art trade guild website. Please visit this website for further information.