A Full and Inspiring Day at the A.P.F. Show!
What a fantastic day at the A.P.F. Show! From the moment I arrived, the place was buzzing with energy, creativity, and inspiration – a real celebration of everything that makes the framing community so special.
The A.P.F. (Association of Picture Framers) Show never fails to excite. It brings together framers, suppliers, and anyone who loves the craft, giving us a chance to see the latest tools and materials, have proper chats with industry experts, and just soak up the atmosphere of a truly passionate community.
And the Fine Art Trade Guild is such an important part of that. They’re always pushing for high standards across framing and fine art, from Advanced Guild Certification to Advanced Conservation. They help framers grow their skills, care for artworks properly, and generally raise the bar across the industry. Being part of the Guild isn’t just about recognition – it’s about connecting with people who care as much as you do about doing things properly and creatively.
Morning Session: On the Gunnar Cutter Stand
I began the day on the @gunnarcutter stand, supporting their amazing team and sharing just how transformative their computerised mount cutters have been for framers like us. Alongside Sarah, the ‘Oracle’ from Gunnar, and Steve, the ‘Wonder Kid’, we welcomed visitors eager to see the cutting-edge technology in action.
At Ironbridge Fine Arts, we’ve been using the Aiox Machine, and it’s truly changed the way we work. Being able to photograph an object and create bespoke apertures with ease has opened up so many creative possibilities. Multi-aperture cutting, precision V-grooves, and intricate bespoke mounts are now faster, more accurate, and infinitely more flexible than ever before. It’s one thing to hear about the technology, but seeing it in action really drives home the impact it can have on framing efficiency and creativity.
The morning session was a fantastic chance to connect with fellow framers, share practical tips, and highlight how this kind of innovation allows us to maintain the highest standards for bespoke framing projects. Find out more at www.aiox.co.uk
Afternoon Session: An insight into the Advanced Conservation Guild Certification
The afternoon was equally rewarding as I had the honour of speaking with the Fine Art Trade Guild about Advanced Guild Certification. Rather than a formal presentation, it was a relaxed, walk-up discussion, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and gain insight into what it really takes to achieve Advanced Certification.
I shared my personal journey as an Advanced Guild Certified Framer with Advanced Conservation status, explaining how the process encourages growth, technical mastery, and confidence within the Guild. Topics included:
What Advanced Guild Certification involves, and the skills and knowledge expected.
How to prepare effectively for assessment, including practical tips and resources.
The benefits of achieving Advanced status – not just professionally, but for personal development and the quality of work delivered.
We also showcased a selection of framing projects that demonstrate the breadth of what can be achieved when applying Level 1 and Advanced standards – from conventional framing to more experimental, bespoke solutions. It was wonderful to see so many engaged framers, sharing experiences, asking questions, and leaving inspired to take their practice to the next level. Find out more about the Fine Art Trade Guild and apply for your Advanced Guild Qualification!
Reflections on the Day
Being part of such a forward-thinking, vibrant community is always inspiring. From cutting-edge technology on the Gunnar stand to in-depth discussions about conservation and professional development, the day was a perfect blend of learning, sharing, and celebrating the art of framing.
I’m incredibly proud to be part of this community and to support fellow framers in pursuing excellence, whether through innovation or advanced certification. The energy, curiosity, and passion I experienced today is a real reminder of why I love what I do.
