| Author | Message | ||
  Rekha Senior Member Username: Rekha Post Number: 391 Registered: 8-2006 |
Thanks Gary, my circle is over the limit of the range this logan offers. I shall have to take my painting to a professional across the road (costly!!) | ||
Garydoc Advanced Member Username: Garydoc Post Number: 165 Registered: 8-2006 |
Rehka, Logan sells a circular & eliptical cutter for the job. Not too expensive I think. There are probably other brands available as well. Here's the link to Cheap Joe's page: http://www.cheapjoes.com/art-supplies/12228_logan-specialty-mat-cutters.asp good luck Gary | ||
Rekha Senior Member Username: Rekha Post Number: 390 Registered: 8-2006 |
Can someone please advise me how I go about cutting the mat board circular frame around the painting but outer edge rectangular. I know how to do the latter by a straightedge and logan knife. I also have a plastic french curve used in marking patterns and fabric but the edges are very thin and not stable like the straightedge ( fluted rubber on the underside) | ||
Geeky2 |
Good information, kmm-dc. We all need to think about framing the best that we can. | ||
kmm_dc |
Something for WC painters to ponder. The jurors at the local Art League always post a commentary about their process for selecting artwork to hang in the gallery - they only hang 20% of work submitted. I found it interesting that the last two jurors (very different styles) both stated that many great paintings were not hung entirely due to innapropriate framing. In one case the frame simply could not hold the size of the painting (combined weight of glass, painting and frame, undersized hardware.) Both jurors mentioned inappropriate matting colors. Competion between the frame and the painting. Just food for thought as you look at framing. We spend so much effort up close on the artwork itself, we need a fresh view of the "framed and matted picture, hanging securely on the wall." The beauty of doing your own mats and framing is the freedom to change. The experience has helped me to understand my composition within the final presentation. Happy framing. | ||
Geeky2 |
In a watercolor class I took last year, the studio had a 750 simplex plus and it was easy to use. I bought one but it does take up a good bit of space, since it has the squaring arm. It is pretty heavy duty. I bought it on sale, so it wasn't more costly than some others. I also wanted one with two separate cuting heads for straights and beveled edges. I use it on the floor then put it under the bed or somewhere, until I get a permenent home for it. Jean | ||
windswept |
Thanks for the info, patinsc. We'll check the local area for matboard, etc. We are in Madison, WI. Going to beautiful Door County tonight for the weekend, so will do more investigating next week. Thanks again to all. | ||
patinsc |
Windswept: I have the Logan 700sgm. It is not that portable but does a great job. Had the Alto but found it was too light and moved around while cutting. I am not the world's best mat cutter so I need all the help I can get.As for mats we have a wholesale frame business in town and all you need is a business license to purchase so I buy matte board, foam core and frames there. Depending on where you are located you might look into a place like that. | ||
Windswept |
Thanks Kukana, Chris & Piper for the response so quickly. We'll look into these two cutters today. While I'm begging for info, what about matboard, any suggestions on good sources, quality, price, etc.??? | ||
piper |
Alto. Reasonable price, easy to use and does an excellent job. | ||
chris |
I use the Logan simplex 750 and like it very much. I can remove it from a table easily when not in use. Chris | ||
Kukana |
I have an Alto mat cutter. It is samll, light weight and very user friendly.I bought their top of the line. It was , ithingk $129. | ||
Windswept |
Hi: I'm really enjoying this discussion board. Lots of good hints and ideas. Question: mat cutters: my husband is my framer, so this is really his question? He is looking at mat cutters and he wants "smaller is better", easy to set up and take down, does quality work and last consideration is cost. Anyone out there have any ideas? Thanks. | ||
artist 69 |
Hi All, I am very pleased first of all to have found this group, very happy to have joined. Yester day I asked about stretching watercolor paper. Anonymous, I took your advice and looked up past discussions on this subject. The only problem for me is that I hinge my paintings and hang them in shadow boxes.I like the beautiful deckle edges of the paper to show. So stapleing around the edges would not work for me. Is the mailing gum tape my answer?? Or are the slight bends in the paper bad? I get both reactions from different galleries. Plus living here in Cleveland, Ohio there is only one art supply store left and it's a very bad one at that. Thank goodness for Cheap Joe's !!! Well I am at work now. I'm an Art Director for the Largest screenprinting (textiles-T-shirts etc.) in northern Ohio. Guess I should go back. Hey I have to pay for my paints and paper somehow. Any suggestions would be most appreciated. Thanks, Big B | ||
Anonymous |
Do you use 300# paper? Then you may not even have to stretch your paper, depending how wet you work... | ||
RMoore |
You might also try applying a thin layer of gesso or matte medium to the back of the paper and let it dry before you start painting; this step won't eliminate buckling but it should reduce it somewhat. Also, have you tried sandwiching the finished painting between two large pieces of Gatorboard, and weighting the whole thing down with several books (another use for all those art books) for a day or two? | ||
artist 69 |
Dear Anonymous, Thanks for your suggestion about the 300# paper. The only problem is that I paint 5 to 6 paintings per week so its kind of cost prohibitive. Thanks B | ||
artist 69 |
Dear RMoore, Thanks for your suggestion about the gesso. Think I'll try some. I usually weigh the paintings down in between 2 pcs of masonite with 50# weight plates on top for a few days. Takes some of the buckling out. Over this past weekend I heard from a gallery here in town (Cleve.Oh. ) which I had submitted my slides to and they really like the look of the floating paper. Thats the beauty of watercolor paper they said. So I got 5 pcs into a Feb. show. I'm beginning to think its personal opinion according to different galleries. Thanks again for your suggestion. B | ||
Kukana |
The weighing down trick works even better if you Lightly spray the back of the paper with a little water. I use a hairspray bottle which gives a finer mist and it really helps. | ||
Anonymous |
Artist69, I've heard that galleries don't mind buckling - part of the process of watercolor. I think, as you said, it's personal preference. I've also tried flattening it out with books and also spraying the back with water as suggested. I still like a stretched sheet, though. | ||
artist 69 |
Dear Anonymous, Thanks for your note about the buckling. My paintings never really are buckled very bad just a few slight ripples. When they hang in the shawdow boxes (11/2") deep they look almost mystical floating inside. It's kind of a nice look that is starting to be noticed here after pounding the pavement for a few years. Sure is expensive being an artist. Maybe I'll start to get some money back now that I'll be in some shows. More important though is that more people will get to enjoy my paintings! Thanks again for your comments. Happy Holidays. B | ||
Rich Williams |
I find that if I am going to take the time to do a good painting then I will only use the best paper that I can buy. I then stretch it on a stretcher boards, using a common stapeler. I soak 140 lb paper for 15 min in cool water and 300 lb for 20 to 25 min. I let them dry overnight and then use masking tape to set the size of the painting. | ||
Anonymous |
artist69, I am sooo discouraged right now. I've been entering alot of shows, but nothing is selling. I'm discouraged because it's so expensive and I'm not able to cover any expenses. I don't know how long I can continue. It's a catch 22 - I can't make any money, if I don't do the work, but I can't do the work if I don't have money to cover costs. J | ||
artist 69 |
Dear J, Boy! do I know that feeling. Most people don't realize how EXPENSIVE it is to be an artist. I finally sold 3 paintings at a recent art competition, but before that I thought about not painting anymore but that wasn't going to happen. If I cant paint I feel as though I have no soul. Luckily I have been adding to my income by freelancing in the evening as a Graphic Designer. Sometimes I'm up till 2 or 3 in the morning and then am back up at 6am to go to work. I'm an Art Director by day. But, at least I can afford papes, paints etc.. I usually paint about 3 paintings (full sheets) per week so it gets costly. I was thrilled to finally sell! So J, dont give up your artistry. It will happen for you I'm sure. I myself can't imagine not painting as I'm sure you can't either. Good luck J & keep on paintin'. artist 69 | ||
Anonymous |
artist 69, I would/could never give up painting - I just have to moan and groan once in a while and vent some frustrations! Thanks for the words of encouragement! J | ||
fink |
I find that it is so difficult finding the right prices for the right people who see the works and want to buy. A year ago I had 26 paintings shown locally for quite small price on each one and sold several. That paid for the expenses and I was happy. The next year I was feeling that the pieces were worth more than what I had put on them the year before so raised them slightly and only sold two for less money than the prior year. Bummer!!!! The quality of them from one year to another was the same - or better- the second year so either the price was the cause OR different people saw them the next year. It is interesting how you can take the same paintings from one place to the next and have people seem interested but not buy. When you are ready to take the paper out of the frame and put something else in, someone will come along and buy it. If I didn't paint, I feel as though I would be in a rubber room somewhere. Paintings are where I go and hide for awhile and return to the real world later to find that I might be able to go on for another day - TIL I PAINT AGAIN THE NEXT DAY. | ||
artist 69 |
Dear Fink, I have run into the same problem with pricing paintings. I had a show in Chicago and had moderate success. my paintings 21x32" sold at the gallery for $750. framed of course. Then back home to Cleveland and another showing. But the gallery here put a $550. price on them. Left me puzzled,same work, same frames HMMMMM? I think alot of it has to do with a gallerys preferences. I don't get discouraged though and am sure learning to weave my way through the screening process of gallerys.That's an art too! Like you fink, I love my other world, makes the real one a little more tolerable. Take care, B | ||
Carrie Stuart Parks |
Hi Anonymous, The art market is somewhat depressed right now. Some thoughts on the shows. You have to find a "fit" (called a nitch)for your art. Here are some thoughts: People tend to buy from people they know, so it might be you are an unknown in that area--so folks look, maybe even like your work, but don't know YOU and are unsure of their taste. Often it takes several years for people to "get used to" you. (ugh!) Some people see the word "art show" and think it is just that--a show, not a sale. The promoters are not doing a good job of marketing that show. You can tell if this is the case if other artists at that show are not selling as well. Drop this show. You may be too different, or too alike, other artists in the same show. Your prices may be out of the usual for that show (too low--what's wrong with THIS person--they're cheap...) or too high. Your subject may not fit with the area. Best selling artists often sell regional "look" and scenes. Your work may be colors and styles people have never seen in your area. (understand this is not a bad thing--it just takes a different buyer and more time to find them). That is just a start. I make it easy to buy (take credit cards), have a variety of sizes and prices, frame most works and hang by color (sounds weird, but the color brings them into the booth), have info on each piece and a name (clever name if I can think of it), have a "sales rack" for the cheap folks, send invites to tell my clients where I am, and have a variety of different things ready like classes I'll be teaching, commission information, etc. My last show I sold 30 paintings. Good luck and God Bless. -Carrie | ||
RMoore |
I always found, too, at outdoor shows, that people love to watch artists at work. They think we are these strange, magical creatures (and they're right). If you can stand having people look over your shoulder, think about doing an ongoing demo of some kind (make sure it's something you can stop in the middle of - not recommended for large gradated watercolor washes.) This will attract people to your booth, which in turn attracts more people who want to see what they're missing. (It should be noted that you need a high tolerance for chitchat to do this!) | ||
fink |
You are right RMoore about the demo's. It keeps people coming back to the booth to see how it is coming and offer suggestions. Actually it is fun to visit with them and find out what they see (which is often times is much different than what I see). I have been asked to do a demo for a regional art competition. One half hour won't get much done but just a start. It will be interesting though and hope to get the people watching involved with it too. Well I had better go and get my sanity back after working all day today. | ||
Carrie Stuart Parks |
Hi guys, I mentions demos in another area--I will only do a demo if I am given the space for it. In a 10 x 10 booth, I need all my space for my art. If the show wants me to demo, it comes out of THEIR space, not mine! I cannot be both shopkeeper and entertainment, so if I demo, I also need someone to watch my booth. I have done quick draws and demos with so-so results (quick draws are paintings completed and framed in 45 minutes to one hour) usually selling the paintings at an auction right after the quick draw. The prices are never really good. (Example: I paint a full sheet watercolor of a flying bird and frame it--28 x 36" --$650-$1000 painting, and have had it sell for $40.) I now do "quick draw" paintings for groups who PAY me FULL PRICE in advance for the art. (Live and learn....) Demo's are good, providing I have the space provided for me, if I am seeking students for classes. I have painted in watercolors since 1968, and I know how to make something look easy--bad for sales, good for students! Best wishes, -Carrie | ||
Kukana |
Framing Help!! What do you all use behind your paintings? I've been using Acid free foam core and the darn stuff end up costing more than the mats! Ive tried plain cardboard with a sheet of acid free paper between the art and the cardboard. Also where do I find a cheap source for frames, mats and WIRE? Any ideas.?? | ||
carol |
hi kukana: yes, that foam core is expensive. i use it , but i get it from my instructor for about 3 something a sheet 32x40,(i'm spoiled). i can't find it for less than $4.70 a sheet. graphik www.pictureframes.com has matboard for $3.95 in lots of 16. graphic list a corrugated backing board, but i don't imagine it's acid free, $1.25 / sheet. i buy standard metal frames from either graphic ar www.americanframe.com . | ||
Anonymous |
Hi, does anyone have any suggestions for removing static electricity from plexiglass!!!! I have always used glass for framing my watercolors, but have decided to try plexiglass but go crazy trying to get rid of all of the specks! Thanks | ||
Kukana |
I'm framed out! I really don't have a post, I just wanted to complain to someone that my fingers are covered with mat cuts and glass cuts from framing 30 pieces for the last 3 days. If if have to frame one more thing I'm going to lose it! I just wanted someone to hear me scream. AAAAuuugggggghhhhhhh!!!! Thanks, I feel much better. -Kukana- | ||
apiper |
Oh Kukana, I felt that shuddering screech! Been there....well, never 30! Sheesh! Well, hopefully you are all done. | ||
Kukana |
Done and ready for a big art show that Carrie and I are doing this weekend. I think I'll be framing in my sleep though. Wish I had a better mat cutter. And a straight edge cutter. Anyone have one they love. I use a Alto mat cutter that was about 150 bucks. I think I'm ready for the next step up. | ||
carol |
kukana: good luck to you and carrie this weekend. i started out with a alto mat cutter. worked ok. then i took on some small framing jobs for friends.saved up all my pennies and purchased a logan simplex plus #750. love it. only thing is the size . it needs a space of it's own.i have mine out all the time, ready to go. | ||
Geeky2 |
I wish you all good luck in your shows, also. I recently bought a Logan simplex plus #750 and I like it. I don't frame as much yet, but learned to use it in a class and liked it. It is big, though. Jean | ||
Kukana |
Carol & Geeky, about how much $ do the LoganSimplex plus750 run? Where did you get yours? Space is not a problem for me. I started off with 5 kids and I'm down to the last one now. Lots of emoty rooms. I've got one dedicated for framing. Also do you all have your own Shrink wrap? Where and how much about? | ||
carol |
kukana....i can't remember what i paid for the logan. it was in cj's summer flyer a couple of years age. i'm sure the cost has gone up. seems somewhere around $200. don't quote me on that. i do use shrink wrap.do not have the machine ( can't justify that cost). i just cut off a piece and use clear packaging tape on the back and use hair blower to tighten. got the shrinkwrap also from cj's. how's your fingers holding up from all that framing? | ||
Laura36 |
Kukana- There is a company called M&M Distributors where I purchased picture wire on a HUGE spool, it probably cost around $20 several years ago, and I still have loads of wire left. I will send you the website info or address tomorrow after I dig up the catalog. I also get most of my frames from American Frame. Right now my husband is looking to make some for me, the angel that he is. A mat cutter is an investment that is essential to me. I bought one from CJAS ten years ago and am ready for a new one. I will probably buy the Framer's choice, just because I am a firm believer in "you get what you pay for". I have set mine up and taken it down each time after cutting several mats for years, and I'm sure this has added to the wear and tear, if not caused it. Mat cutters should have their own space where they can be left covered when not in use. For backing I use acid-free foamcore in frames. It is much lighter than matboard and yes, it can be expensive, but I bought a box of 25 sheets from CJAS for a good price, less than $4 a sheet. I am also trying very hard to make all paintings the same size. Helps tremendously in the final process of framing. | ||
Laura36 |
Hi again Kukana- Well I took a chance and looked up M&M Distributors on the web. Voila! I guessed right on the web address. Here it is: www.mmdistributors.com. It is not much of a site, you just put in your name and address if you want to receive a catalog. Should get to you in 2-3 weeks. They have everything for framing. I bought my brad gun from them years ago and I love it. It is so easy to use and I can get more points for it through them. I see they now carry glass, matboard and foamcore. They used only to carry tools. I would recommend plastic coated picture wire if you end up buying it. It is well worth the few extra dollars as your hands don't end up black from non-coated wire. | ||
Laura36 |
To Anonymous from Feb19- I know that I have seen cleaners for plexiglass out there. I am thinking also that M&M Distributors may carry something like that. I have had the same problem, and have used a dryer sheet to wipe the plexi after cleaning it with a solution of 1/2 vinegar, 1/2 water. I don't recommend glass cleaner as it leaves streaks. | ||
Kukana |
Thanks Laura, YOu're a storehouse of info! Ditto on painting the same size to minimize framing cost but I quit often find myself loving a section of a really large otherwise yucky painting that I end up chopping up..viola..odd size painting! | ||
Geeky2 |
Hi, Kukana, as I said, I'm not framing as much as most of you, but a workshop in town had a mat cutter, the 750 Logan that I mentioned. I bought it from Cheap Joe's in this past holiday flyer (not sure when the sale ended), but it was $224.95 plus free 100 blades. I checked around different catalogs, and with the blades that was the best price at that time.(Especially since I was ordering more than $200. for free shipping.) As much as you frame, you may want a more expensive one, who knows? Good luck. The only thing I noticed is that (in class) the problem everyone had with this cutter is: in setting the mat width, you have to push down on two knobs and slide it to the width, and the teacher, and all of us had trouble with that. It seems hard to get going and then you slide back and forth trying to get it right. maybe it just takes practice. Carol frames more than I do, so she may be able to help you make up your mind better than I can. One thing I do like about it: it has the two separate cutting handles for bevel and straight. I think Laura is correct about keeping a place set up for matting. I'd use it more if I did. |
