Spring Fair '09 is GO

[Adrian]

Always interesting to read Deepjoy's posts, especially as we seem to be going through similar phases of setting up the business and definitely similar emotions - passion for the subject, enthusiasm bolstered by Spring Fair - and then the doubt and the nerves!

I feel like I'm on one of the steepest learning curves I've ever been on - so much to do, so much to practice, so much to learn! It certainly does feel a bit daunting at times! However, as my notice has now been given in at work there's no going back! Not that I would anyway!

And this forum is also a great resource (and comfort) - thanks again for some useful tips there Moglet!

Adrian

[WelshFramer]

I must admit, even though I ride this framing cloud with great optimism and belief in myself, a bit like Kev on his motorbike, I for a lingering period since my return have had my doubts. When I see the quality of framing and the many, many techniques used to surround a piece of artwork, i do have to realise that there is more to framing than meets the eye. I have never been under any misapprehensions regarding the shear scale of the task ahead of me, but for just one wavering moment i have had the confidence knocked a wee bit.

That's what makes framing so worthwhile. Let's face it, if it were just a case of sticking 4 lengths of wood together and slapping a piece of glass over a picture we'd probably all have given it up for a more interesting job on the Tesco checkout long ago.

Áine is right about stressing the importance of mastering the basics and letting the creativity come with experience. When I first started I bought a job lot of moulding from eBay. Most of it was rubbish but it was great for practising without wasting much money. Next thing I did was fill the house with framed pictures. I work from home so not only did they give me a chance to practise but they now form a gallery of examples I can show to customers - hey, come upstairs and see my picture frames.

Three things I've found useful in gaining ideas:

1. This forum and the Grumble.

2. Going round galleries and exhibitions - particularly those run by galery/framing shops.

3. Picture Framing Magazine (http://www.pictureframingmagazine.com/).

[Moglet]

... things I've found useful in gaining ideas:

TV! I look at what's hanging on the set walls all the time now. I've found it a great way to see stuff that looks good (and stuff that looks really naff!).

Another idea is to look at what's hanging on the walls of local businesses, and see how your own work compares: sometimes the stuff on display is dreadful - shirt framing in partilar.

[WelshFramer]

TV! I look at what's hanging on the set walls all the time now. I've found it a great way to see stuff that looks good (and stuff that looks really naff!).

So next time Audrey catches me watching day-time TV I can tell her I'm working doing research. Great idea!

[Moglet]

After all the help I've received here, it's nice to be able to do summat to return the compliment!

[DEEPJOY]

Thanks everyone I'm back on track after a shaky moment

Only the shallow know themselves

[Moglet]

It's obvious to anyone with a modicum of intelligence that that does not apply in your case, Deepjoy!

[Moglet]

The bad news is that you may have shaky moments again. There may be times when you'll go most of the week with not an order in sight.

At times like that, of which I've had several in the past 3½ years, I've said to myself:

"What possessed you into becoming a framer? Were you INSANE???!!!!!!"

Then the next thing you know, a customer will come in with armfuls of stuff, and it's all OK again! It's a white-knuckle ride at times, but I still feel it has been worth it, even in the current climate. Indeed, if the worst was to happen, and I were not to make it through the downturn, it would suck to the high heavens, and my business might be taken away from me. But no-one would ever be able to take away the smiles I've put on people's faces, or what I've learned about myself - and about life - along the way. If I was to close in the morning, it would be after spending 3½ years of my life working at something that, to me, has real meaning. Some people spend a lifetime working, and can never claim that luxury. Lucky me!

Readymade? £7.99
Bespoke Job? £200
Experience? Priceless!!!

[Moglet]

Another thing they can't take away, and the most important of all: the wonderful friends I have found here.

[DEEPJOY]

Moggy
Blown away and speechless as usual after one of your passionate rallies.

I think you already know how fond the forum members feel about having you on board. I will stop right there in fear of Kev having a go about how NICE I am being.

Keep in touch with yourself...

Deep in joy and excitement

[Moglet]

We're only sure of the one life.


It's not a dress rehearsal...