There is no charge for our initial examination of any frame in need
of repair that you bring to us at the Studios. Simply call ahead
to schedule an appointment. Once we have inspected the
frame and discussed treatment options with you, we will be able to
determine the amount of work that will be required
to achieve the desired result.
In some cases, previous repairs with inappropriate materials must be removed
before
conservation can begin. In others, all that may be needed to restore
a dingy gilded object to its subtle glory is a light cleaning with
the proper solvent. A badly damaged or fragile old frame, however, may need
extensive treatment. In that case, we can stabilize, carefully reattach,
carve
or recast missing ornament, parcel gild, burnish, and blend to
approximate the existing patina.
If after our initial discussion you decide to go forward,
we will ask you to leave the frame with us for further examination.
You will be given a receipt and asked to declare a value for insurance
purposes.
When we have photographed and studied the frame, we will
send you a proposal that documents the frame's existing condition, describes
our recommended treatment in full detail, and clearly states the
cost. If you accept the terms of the proposal,
you have incurred no charge to this point. If, however, you decide
not to proceed, you will be invoiced a modest fee reflecting
the professional services required to prepare the proposal.