... I am curious to hear others "Best Of" picks concerning books or videos related to our profession.
What say you?
The value of framing books depends on your purpose. If you are a beginner, I suggest buying the entire set of Vivian Kistler's books or DVDs. She covers all topics, her books are very well researched, illustrated - lots of photos & drawings, and the instructions are clear enough for anyone to understand.
Paul Frederick's books were written in the 70s and 80s, so they are somewhat outdated now. Still, a lot of their content is valid. And from the historical perspective, it is helpful to understand how framing methods and materials have evolved over the years, because you will probably have to update or otherwise deal with some older framing of the type described in Paul's books.
As you advance, buy books and videos that go deep into specific subjects. Kistler's books cover advanced techniques, but it helps to have multiple perspectives. Chris Paschke's books on mounting and laminating are a good supplement to Vivian's, for example.
And if you are interested in advanced framing and preservation knowledge, the most comprehensive self-guided course of study is provided by the CPF Study Guide from PPFA. That recommends certain parts of several texts, which are considered to be authoritative resources for advanced framing. The purpose of the CPF Study Guide is to enable CPF candidates to zero-in on the specific information tested in the CPF exam, but it is equally helpful even if you have no plans to go for certification.
And then there's the CCI Notes. The Canadian Conservation Institute has assembled a wealth of information useful for framers as well as conservators. Also, other books written for conservators help to put their work into perspective for framers who might have occasion to work with them.
So, the short answer to your question is: Depending on your purpose, any framing book might be a "Best Of" book.
That didn't help a bit, did it?
