Resources
They Trust Us
Links
- Cady's Alley
- L'ecole d'art mural de Versailles
- Art du cartonnage
- Laurence Anquetin
- French Wine Society
- LR. Paris
- Washington Circle Hotels
Washington Circle Hotels offers the best rates on hotels near the Washington, D.C.
FAQs
Framing and cartonnage
What is the difference between French Framing and American Framing?
French Framing differs from American Framing in the techniques used to create matting. Traditional American framing uses machines to cut 2mm or 1/8 in. bevels on a white or colored mat. The French wrap their hand cut bevels and mats with papers from all over the world. The technique also combines different widths of matting, this allows the framer to play with depth, color, texture, and patterns in a creative way.
The other French Framing technique, known as the "French Mat" or "Lavis", comes from 18th century matting practices. This can only be done by a master framer who studied as an apprentice. The technique is comprised of hand drawn ink lines of varying thickness, a strip of thin paper and a wash of watercolor.
What is the cartonnage?
Cartonnage is the art of using French construction boards and paper to make boxes, folders, frames and many more creative objects. The possibilities are endless when making cartonnage because the size, papers, and subject can always be changed. Check out our Cartonnage page to see examples...
What can be framed?
We can frame anything at L'Eclat de Verre, from simple items like photographs, posters, drawings, lithogrpahs to more complex things like clothing, jewelry, china and sculpture. Our master framer is up for the challenge and will find a solution to frame your subject so it will be admired by all and last a lifetime.
The best way to determine how to frame a subject is to bring it into our store so our trained specialist can help you select custom framing options.
How long it take to frame a subject?
It will take one week to complete most frames. Complex projects can require more time, but will never exceed two weeks.
If you are framing an oil painting and only need a frame, this can be accomplished in about 20 minutes.
How much does it cost to frame?
In order to get the most accurate price it is best to bring your subject into the store for a free estimate. The price is determined by the following factors; size, matting, type of glass, and the molding that you choose.
How much are the moldings?
We have moldings to fit every budget.
Do you frame mirrors?
Yes, we can order beveled and regular mirrors at any size. Call for a quote. In addition, any of our frames can be made into a mirror of any size. We also frame flat screen televisions and computer screens.
What is the easiest way to pick up a finished frame?
If your completed frame is too heavy or awkward to carry, we have an entrance in the back of our store on Cady's Alley. To get to our entrance by car you need to turn left onto 34th street coming from DC center or left onto 34th street coming from Virginia. Drive down the steep rocky road and make a left at the dead end. Our store has a blue sign on the left hand side about a block down. We will of course be happy to assist you with your order. This is for pick-up only, there is no parking permitted in the alley.
I don't live in Washington, do you ship materials?
Yes, we can ship you materials. Call or email our store and ask for Caitlin, the store manager.
Workshops
What are the workshops offered?
L'Eclat de Verre offers workshops that teach French framing techniques. Our classes are small in size and provide a lot of one on one attention to each student. Students can bring in a small piece of art or ephemera and learn step by step how to frame it or frame one of our many reproduction cards and post cards. During the lesson skilled teachers will help you pick out paper and instruct you in the matting and mounting of your subject. Special frame discounts are offered to class participants, you can have a complete frame by the end of the class.
L'Eclat de Verre also offers workshops to teach the art of cartonnage. Each class is different so please check our schedule to see what the next workshop will be creating. In each lesson you are taught the fundamentals of cartonnage and guided through each step. After one lesson you have enough of a foundation to be able to work on future projects at home. More advanced lessons are available upon request.
Are private workshops available for parties?
Yes, we can schedule a private lesson for any special event. Call Caitlin, our store manager, to request a date, time and desired lesson.
When are the workshops?
Our workshops are updated monthly and are usually held on Saturday mornings from 10am to about 1pm. If three or more people are interested in a specific class, a private lesson can be taught at a convenient time for you. Call and ask for Caitlin, the store manager to schedule a time.
How do I register for the framing workshops?
You can click the register button on the workshops page or call our store to reserve your spot. Please call at least 2 days before the scheduled class. We require payment for the class to reserve your spot.
How much are the workshops?
The French framing workshop is $55 per person,this includes all the necessary framing materials and skilled help. The cost of paper, glass, and molding are not included. Cartonnage classes range from $35- $65 per class,this includes all necessary materials and skilled help. Papers are not included
How much are the papers?
The papers from range is from $2.60 -$40.00 per sheet. On average people spend $11.00 on paper during one of our workshops.
