GCF - About the Exam

Mary Evans GCF Adv, Chair Framers Committee THE UPDATED Guild Commended Framer exam is now launched.The exam, introduced in 1994, requires candidates to bring three previously framed items for inspection.Two of these items remain the same: the canvas stretched over bars and the artwork on paper which must be framed to Conservation Level. However, the artwork on paper which had to be framed to Commended Level will be replaced by an item of fabric art stretched over a support board.

The Framers Committee recognises that some candidates may have difficulty finding stitched work so, for the purpose of the exam, a piece of decorated fabric will be acceptable. The inclusion of fabric art in the exam has been made to reflect the increased popularity of needlework that most framers have seen over the last sixteen years. The exam must keep up-to-date with popular trends, so a competent professional framer must demonstrate the ability to frame fabric art. Although only Commended Level framing is required for the fabric item, candidates are expected to have a knowledge of framing fabric art to Conservation Level. The practical part of the exam and the theory paper have both been altered to include fabric elements and an updated GCF Study Guide has been published.

Another change is that, on the Conservation Level piece, candidates have a choice of whether to draw two lines or to cut a V-groove. Until January 2011 candidates will be able to choose whether they prefer to take the original exam or the new one, but from then on the fabric element will be compulsory.

Mary Evans GCF Adv, Chair Framers Committee

The Guild Commended Framer (GCF) exam is a test of basic framing skills, but the work on which you will be examined must be of faultless quality and attractively presented.

All candidates will be examined on the following:

cutting single, double, multi-window mounts
cutting undermounts and backboards
stretching an artwork on canvas onto stretcher bars
distinguishing between various types of artwork and knowing when conservation framing is appropriate
hinging and framing to conservation standards

In addition candidates for the 1994 exam (available until January 2011) will be examined on

drymounting artwork using a heated press or self-adhesive board
decorating mounts using a ruling pen

In addition candidates for the new exam (optional until January 2011, then compulsory) will be examined on

decorating mounts using a ruling pen OR V-groove
stretching fabric art over a support board

How long does the exam take?

Candidates are examined on a one-to-one basis. Each exam takes just under two hours with time available for practise beforehand. Candidates are notified of results within 10-14 days.

What do you need?

You will need to prepare and show the examiner three pictures, as described in the GCF Study Guide.

Until January 2011 these are: an artwork framed to Commended Level; art on canvas stretched and framed; and art on paper framed to Conservation Level with two ruled lines.

Optional until January 2011 then compulsory: an item of fabric art framed to Commended Level; art on canvas stretched and framed; and art on paper framed to Conservation Level with two ruled lines OR V-groove

The Framers Commitee has prepared 100 GCF Questions to help you study - your test paper will be taken from these questions so do learn them well! There are two sets depending on which exam you wish to take

1994 Exam	New Exam

Preparing for the GCF Exam

GCF Study Guide cover

Prior to taking the exam, framers should obtain a copy of the Study Guide, published by the Guild.
The GCF Study Guide (revised in 2010) is the syllabus for the exam and provides essential information to help you prepare for the exam. It is also used as a training manual and indispensable reference source throughtout the framing industry.
It is only £12 to members & £15 to non-members. Postage is £2.00 within UK
This Study Guide is available in Russian and German text.

Order your copy now!

Read & Learn
Make sure you have been framing for long enough and often enough to feel confident and competent in the required elements of the test. If not, take a short training course with an experienced trainer.

GCF Exam Fee

Guild members £111.63 (£95 +VAT)

Non-members £151.28 (£128.75 +VAT)

To book click here. When you book, please let us know whether you will be taking the new exam (fabric framing).

GCF Test Centres

Thanks to the generosity and support of Guild members we are able to offer GCF exam facilities worldwide. Click the Flags to go to the GCF Test Centres and dates for examination in those regions.