Framed Brushes in a Shadowbox

                        

     We recently saw framed fountain pens in a magazine and decided we wanted to create a similar sample. Since we also sell art supplies, what better object to frame than brushes! This technique can apply to vintage objects, collections, and more. We demonstrate stacking techniques, inlay, pen lines, and handmade applications. This a step by step process of framing these three brushes in a shadowbox.

First we chose these frames. They aren't deep enough, so we created a deeper frame out of wood. We will show you how we created that in a few more steps.

This is the screen for the Wizard, it is like a Mat board cutting version of Photoshop, but using measurements instead of images. It creates windows, v-grooves, pen lines, and designs based on how we create a project. We took into account the size of the brushes, how far away they needed to be spaced, and how big of a border around so we could fit foam core and mat board a shadowbox strips inside with the objects.

Here is the Wizard Drawing perfect pen lines for the mat board.

Finished mat board with tiny stands.

Our framer Chris then used the Wizard to create cutouts to resemble shelf brackets. They were stacked three at a time to hold each side. He measured each space and glued down the brackets so that the brushes could be nicely placed. He then glued the brushes to the brackets so they stayed in place. Sometimes we use silicone or something less permanent so that the objects can be removed if needed.

Chris adding tiny bits of glue to the stands.

After the mat was created, we had correct measurements to build a frame. In this case, we used a fillet, two small frames that were stacked, and handmade wooden sides to make a deep shadowbox.

After Chris cut the frames on the saw, he attached the handmade box.

Patrick made a wood frame, drilled holes, and connected the frames together to form a deep shadowbox. He then sanded it smooth. Modeling paste was used to cover the separation of the two frames and let it dry. He created a faux wood texture on the sides for interest.

After the modeling paste dried, Patrick painted the sides gold and then applied a brown glaze to show the texture. It blends nicely with the original frames. Its great having an Artist in the frame shop!

Below, Chris needed to create mat board sides to hold the glass in place while allowing the brushes to sit back in the frame. He went to the next level and created an inlay design with the mat cutter.  The pattern then sits between two solid mat board strips on each side to imitate the look of a wood inlay.

After setting the Museum glass in, he set half inch foam core strips into the frame. They were then staggered on the sides so each corner had a clean edge for the viewer.

After cleaning the glass and blowing any excess dust out, he then placed the brushes and mat inside the frame. We backed it with acid free grey paper and wire sufficient for the weight. 

Here are a few photos of the finished product!