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Peter Stetler

Grumbler
Joined
Jun 5, 2002
Posts
16
Loc
Flushing, N.Y.
Hello to all
My name is Peter Stetler. I just discovered "The Grumble", and thought I would
say a few lines about what I do.
I have been restoring antique picture frames and gilded objects for about 30 years
in the New York City area. I do work for various art conservators, museums
etc., on a wide range of frames of all styles and periods.
I also have worked in retail framing.
 
Hello Peter,

Welcome to the Grumble. This a great place to learn and exchange ideas, not to mention have more than a few giggles. A lot of talented helpful people hang out here.

Jan
 
Welcome, Peter!

We're a little family, and, well, welcome to the family!
 
Peter,
Welcome to TG as we call it. Seems that your expertise may be quite an addition. Be warned however, this site becomes quite addictive.
 
G'day Peter,

From The Land of Oz.

I just wish you were a bit closer to me!
 
Welcome, Peter!
I took a workshop on water gilding once, and boy, do I have lots of respect for the difficulty of your job! Expect lots of questions!

Leslie
 
Hello and welcome.
I already have a question.
My part time employee is interested in learning more about frame restoration. He has played around with it on some old frames we have hanging around the shop.
Th question is, how do we find someone to give him a little instruction? Any suggestions?
 
To Debbie Derbonne-
Dear Debbie,
The simple answer is to find someone in your area who is a competent frame restorer and try to set up some lessons. The problem is determining their competency.
You might try some of your local museums, or objects conservators in your area, as they are more likely to know about reversible techniques. I also might be able to assist you in some way.
There are two basic approaches to restoring frames: 1) COSMETIC REPAIR, using the most expedient techniques (possibly injurious to the frame's original condition) to get the job done for the least expense; 2) HIGH QUALITY RESTORATION, where everything you do respects the object's integrity, which can be very expensive.
Please tell me which you are interested in.
The most important point to be aware of when considering doing frame restoration, as in any restoration, is that you're ALWAYS working on the client's property DIRECTLY, so the issues of "do no harm" and "reversibility" are critical, no matter whether doing Cosmetic Repair, or High Quality Restoration.
Regards, Peter Stetler
 
Hi, Peter. Welcome to TG. You have just signed away a good part of your available time each day. This is a very addictive site as Jerry says.

I'm not trying to be a smart*ss, but did you mean to say your restoration of frames is expected to be reversible? I can't imagine how hard that would have to be, if so.

Glad you're here.
 
Originally posted by Peter Stetler:
[QB]
There are two basic approaches to restoring frames: 1) COSMETIC REPAIR, using the most expedient techniques (possibly injurious to the frame's original condition) to get the job done for the least expense; 2) HIGH QUALITY RESTORATION, where everything you do respects the object's integrity, which can be very expensive.

I would say we would like to start with cosmetic restoration and graduate to high quality restoration as he becomes more knowledgeable. Mike, my employee, enjoys this type of work and certainly shows an aptitude for it. I feel this would be a valuable service for my shop to offer.
I'm looking for knowledge and ways to make profits from that knowledge.
Thanks for your suggestions. I'll try contacting the local art museum since I don't know of any conservators in this area.
Click to expand...
 
Mel,
Yes, frame restorations should be as reversible as possible- its not always possible, though, and depending on the client, that has to be documented. It's a real head breaker sometimes!!
It's tough enough to get repaired areas to match
under any conditions, let alone discovering some reversible technique!
Regards, Peter
 
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