CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMERS

Certified picture framers are those who have chosen to undertake a lengthy examination determining their knowledge and ability as a picture framer. This article discusses the association responsible for this certification, as well as what is required to become certified.

SUMMARY THE PPFA CPF CERTIFICATION MCPF CERTIFICATION The Professional Picture Framer's Association was established in 1971 and is the only official framing organization worldwide. In order to become a Certified Picture Frame, some basic criteria must be met. In order to become a Master Certified Picture Framer, more extensive testing and proof of ability must be undertaken.

THE PPFA

The Professional Picture Framer's Association (PPFA) was established in Virginia in 1917. Since then, 62 chapters have opened in cities across the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The association is largely volunteer-run, with the only paid employees working at the head office in Virginia. The original events held by the PPFA were their annual framing competitions, which began the very year the group was established. Since then, their member offerings have expanded to an annual conference in Las Vegas - at which the competitions are now held - various programs and courses for picture framers, and the certification programs over which they preside. In addition, the PPFA is responsible for several publications (under the name The Library of Professional Picture Framing), including many books by Master Certified Picture Framer Vivian C. Kistler, such as "Picture Framing, Vol 1", and "Mounting Methods". The association also publishes newsletters and DVDs. As well, their online presence offers members and enthusiasts access to forums and technical articles relating to all areas of framing.

CPF CERTIFICATION

The opportunity to become a Certified Picture Framer was unveiled in 1986, when the first CPF exam was held. CPF potentials can take their examination during the Las Vegas conference, at their nearest PPFA chapter, or even online. In order to qualify for CPF status, two criteria are required: The applicant must have a minimum of one year of experience as a picture framer They must have sat for, and successfully completed, the 3-1/2 hour, multiple choice exam Once certified, the CPF must recertify regularly. It is also expected that the framer makes an effort to keep up to date on changing framing techniques and practices, designs, and theories.

MCPF CERTIFICATION

Almost twenty years later, in 2003, the Master Certified Picture Framer certification was introduced. The criteria for this higher designation are a bit more stringent. The applicant must: currently be certified as a CPF spent at least 5 years as a CPF and recertified at least once prepare and submit four framed items to be examined by a panel of adjudicators assemble a framed piece on-site, in front of adjudicators write a condition report for an artwork As of 2013, there are only 70 MCPFs in the world.

KEENART MEDIA PICTURE FRAMING AND RESOURCES

At KeenART Media, custom picture framing is one of the many services we offer, but we take great pride in our expertise and quality practices when it comes to framing your special art and photography. We offer a wide selection of picture frame mouldings, as well as many colors and grades of matboards, all of which can be cut to the perfect size to fit any of your artistic pieces. Our online art supply store also offers various picture framing hardware, including wire, hooks, hangers, bumpers, turn buttons, and more. In addition to our services, we are also proud to offer a comprehensive assortment of articles pertaining to picture framing, fine art printing, photography, art, and Giée. Browse our selection of Picture Framing Resources.

If you have questions about any of our services or products, don't hesitate to contact us. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to assist with answers, advice, or suggestions.