Tag: Whispering Woods Gallery

Congratulations Class of 2020! Commemorate your Graduation with a Custom Frame from Whispering Woods Gallery

Posted by on in Custom Framing, For the Community
Holy Family custom framed diploma at Whispering Woods Gallery Holland Pa
Your ceremony may have been cancelled but your achievement was not! Call us now to discuss your diploma framing

Although graduation may not be traditional this year, it is still an important milestone!  A diploma is something to display, not put away in a closet or drawer. After all, it took much hard work over the years to earn it.  Here are a few questions to ask when you frame your diploma.

  • What kind of glass will be used?  Does it block UV rays to reduce the fading of the signatures? Do you prefer an anti-reflective solution?
  • Does the mat fit the certificate? Mats from a university book store diploma frame don’t necessarily fit your diploma.  Why cover up something important?
  • How will the diploma be secured in the frame? Does it need to be dry-mounted?  Is this a good idea?
  • Is this framing process reversible?  Quality framing will come out of the frame in it’s original condition, without tape adhesive. Professional framers aim for their work to be reversible.
  • Is the hanging hardware secure and proper for where you will hang it?  A ready-made frame might not have the hanging solution for your walls.  A professional framer will provide a hanging solution that works for you.
  • Do you love it? Ordering online does not let you see the details of the frame design. Does it reflect my personality?  Somebody in the fashion industry might pick something different than an accountant or attorney.  Will the same frame be available for future diplomas and licenses? Is if made from solid wood or particle board?
  • Should I take this to an expert?  Professional framers study for years. They know what’s best for your situation.  You want this to last for generations. Why settle for anything less?

Call Whispering Woods Gallery to set up a time for a shop visit or we can work virtually. Let us show you the many ways we can commemorate your special accomplishment with a custom frame. We care to do it right.  You should too.  Congratulations 2020 Graduates!

Framed Concert Memories

Posted by on in Custom Framing
Paul Weller framed concert memorabilia
We framed a concert poster, set list, drum stick, guitar picks, ticket and photos to make a lasting memory of a great performance!

It was a night at the Fillmore that will always be remembered! Jen of Yardley, PA is a Paul Weller fan and she shows her dedication here! She brought us a set list, poster, concert ticket, guitar picks, drum stick and a series of awesome photos to frame this impressive piece.

It was a joy to work with Jen who is a graphic designer. I especially like her layout of her personal photos of the concert.

Let’s hope we can make some new concert memories soon. Until then we are happy to frame your tickets, photos and posters that you have already collected.

View some more framed concert memorabilia framed at Whispering Woods Gallery.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Celebrating 33 Years!

Posted by on in Custom Framing

Enjoy some of our favorite photos from over the years. Click on a photo to see the full caption and larger size. Continue clicking on the arrow for a slideshow. We truly thank all who have supported us over the years!

Another favorite in the shop. My Grandmother’s calling card.
One of my favorites! Dad sits on the front counter. He’s with us always!
A very rare photo of our grandparents. My grandfather died in 1929. This was the first photo restoration project in our shop.
It’s ok to have a bad hair day! Photo circa 1962.
A few years ago I wrote a blog post every day for thirty days showing my favorite vintage photo projects. This one is in my dining room. I fondly remember Ed’s parents! If you have not checked out the “Vintage Is Now” project, just mouse over “Blog” on the menu.
I can’t thank my friend Steve enough for the support and friendship over the years. As a neighbor and fellow framer I have always appreciated his wisdom!
Another favorite in the shop. I found Mom and Dad’s cake topper and created this by scanning photos from Ruthie and Harold’s wedding album.
I frame lots of fun vintage postcard projects. This one has Mom and Dad where they met in Atlantic City.
Here’s a part of history that must be shared. A vintage postcard of the SS Leopoldville, which was torpedoed in the English Channel December 24, 1944. Seven hundred US Soldiers were killed. Miraculously our father, Harold Gittlen was rescued.
I was awarded the MCPF designation in 2007, the highest recognition in our industry. There are only about seventy who have earned this.
So much gratitude goes out to Paul Papier for the outstanding professional photography over the years. If you need photography call Paul!
We love our customers! To each and every one of you, thank you for your support over the years!
I have displayed at many vendor shows over the years.
In 2014 I was awarded two Design Star awards. On the left is Greg Perkins, one of the best frame designers in our industry.
In 2015 I was awarded First Place in Design for Textiles! This was a proud moment with Drew Van Pelt the former CEO of Larson Juhl
I was honored to win another Design Star award in 2017 in Las Vegas.
Marlee had the coolest living room!
Postcard montages take us back!
I was awarded the PPFA Service Award, for my dedication to the framing industry. I proudly display this at the shop!
Photo restoration brings back memories. It delights me to bring happiness to my customers!
This was the start of Whispering Woods Gallery. Fall 1986.
I travelled to Jackson, Mississippi to learn how to frame from Herb Carithers, an innovator in the framing industry.
Larry built our shop in every way. Circa November 1986.
Larry, circa 1987.
Setting up shop in 1986.
Here’s our Dad helping us set up shop in 1986. We remember him everyday.
Our opening party. Thanks to Phyllis, Mom-Mom, for teaching me about the framing business.
We remember Seymour Grant of Grant’s Brandywine Gallery who shared everything he knew about how to run a successful framing business. We got a great start. 1987
An early art show with a local artist.
Rachel used to visit the shop on Saturdays. Where has time gone?
Mom was always ready to help out. She was our best cheerleader!
Debbie might be behind the scenes but works non-stop to make us look good.
Ed, you always make us look great!
I really enjoy framing our four footed friends. Nick was “Best of Breed” in Westminster in 2019!
Volunteering for PPFA, took me to many Museums, frame shops and framing manufacturers.
I was honored to frame this for an Emmy award winner.
Most of you have enjoyed dessert from our friend Pat. Sadly he retired from the baking business after 33 years. We miss him every day!
I visited Lucy to show her some of the important framing that we do to preserve her history.
Thank you for 33 years!
This shadowbox was featured in Picture Framing Magazine.
It brings me joy to frame your family!
Another article in Picture Framing Magazine!
Framing memorabilia from our soldiers is an honor. Thanks to all of the Mom’s and Dad’s that served to protect our country.
Here’s our latest illuminated sign.
Thank you for all of the support and love that you have given Whispering Woods Gallery! We couldn’t have done it without you!
Please help us win again. We need your votes!
Thank you!
Our Brand Logo
We love our customers!

 

Inspect Your Framed Art and Memorabilia

Posted by on in Art, Custom Framing
Inspect your framed art
Just because something has been framed, doesn’t mean it should be forgotten.

When you own framed art or memorabilia that means a lot to you,  pay attention to make sure it remains in good condition. The most common problems occur from damaging UV light rays, insects, moisture or temperature change. When you see signs of problems, bring your framed piece in so we can provide advice on how to correct the problem and how to stop further damage. Feel free to give us call at 215-364-4321 for more information.

“Oh no, my picture has broken glass!” Glass replacement service

Posted by on in Art, Custom Framing, For the Community, Photo Restoration

At Whispering Woods Gallery, we frequently replace broken glass. Glass can break for many reasons.

  • A proper hook was not used.
  • The hanging hardware was not sufficient for the piece. Screw eye hangers and sawtooth hangers usually are not the best choice.
  • The wire did not catch onto the hook properly.
  • The frame was jarred by a person or object.
  • House repairs to the roof or siding shook the wall.
  • The art was not hung on a timely basis and was jarred while on the floor.
  • The art was leaned against a wall without being secured.
  • The art did not have sufficient protection during transport.  Many times glass breaks during shipping or a move.

Our goal is to safely dispose the broken glass, remove glass shards, repair or replace a broken frame, and replace the glazing with the appropriate choice. If the mat is scratched we can replace it.  Prices vary according to size, type of glass, and complexity of the project. We stock five types of Tru Vue glass at our shop – Regular, Conservation Clear, Non-glare, Conservation Reflection Control and Museum. All glass is cut in our shop to fit your frame. Drop by with your  piece and we’ll get it fixed up fast. No worries!

 

Broken glass replacement
No worries, Whispering Woods Gallery can replace your glass!

“Vintage is Now” Day 29 – Where will our images be 100 years from now?

Posted by on in Custom Framing, Photo Restoration, Vintage, Vintage is now
Vintage photography custom framed
Custom framed duo with french ruled lines on archival matting

As our month of showing vintage photo projects comes to an end, we wonder what will become of the photographic images of today? Photos like the two above have been treated well over the years. When our customers bring in vintage photos to be framed, we frame them to be protected and enjoyed. Sometimes we scan and reproduce so that other family members can have their own copies.

One hundred years ago, a printed image was precious. Times have changed due to digital photography. Most images are stored and not printed. It is so easy to lose a flash drive, hard drive or other storage device.  Will our descendants be able to access our photos from dated devices?

Right now, a printed photo is still the best way to preserve an image. Having a digital back up is a smart idea too. Do you have a plan for your photo storage?

Thanks to Gary of Holland for letting us share his framed photos of his Mom. We know that he will enjoy the framed photos for years to come.

 

“Vintage is Now” Day 26 – Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Guitar Strings, Photo and Guitar Pick

Posted by on in Custom Framing, Vintage, Vintage is now
Custom Framed Stevie Ray Vaughan photo, guitar strings and pick
This frame includes a Stevie Ray Vaughan photo, guitar strings and guitar pick.

Welcome to “Vintage is Now” day 26 where I feature a vintage photo of American blues musician Stevie Ray Vaughan, his guitar string packets and a guitar pick.  Combining a photo with objects helps to tell the story. We frequently frame signed photos of musicians, sometimes with posters and concert tickets. Many of these items are purchased on Ebay, from dealers or at auctions.

The frame was a simple black and silver Larson Juhl frame that was deep enough to accomodate the packets.  Museum Glass was used to prevent glare from the black mat.

Stevie Ray Vaughan was killed at the age of 35 in a helicopter crash. We were glad to frame this meaningful collection of items from a musician that left our world too soon. We know that the owner enjoys it.

 

“Vintage is Now” Day 21- Memories Montage

Posted by on in Custom Framing, Vintage, Vintage is now
Custom FramedMemories Montage
We framed these snapshots for a senior citizen moving into an independent living community.

A few months ago we worked on an interesting project of framing many snapshots for a new resident of a nearby independent living community. She stopped by the shop with a very large folder of her favorite photos. There were dozens of images spanning many decades! It took a while but we narrowed them down to make two pleasing arrangements. Each photo was meaningful and would bring joy. The framing was exactly to her specifications to fit in two places in her living area.

We had several challenges. We had to select from so many important photos.  Also we had to keep the size to a minimum.  All of the photos were from different time periods so nothing matched.  All of the photo sizes were unique making layout a challenge.

The end result  was perfect and we are delighted to preserve these memories for a resident new to the area.

Custom framed photo montage
Custom framed photo montage to fit in a specific spot.

“Vintage is Now” Day 19-Framed World War II pencil sketch and vintage photos

Posted by on in Custom Framing, Vintage, Vintage is now
WWII custom framed sketch with photos
A sketch by US Army combat engineer Warren Stichtenoth was framed with original photographs.

Day 19 of Whispering Woods Gallery’s “Vintage is Now” goes back to WWII-1945. US Army combat engineer Warren Stichtenoth created this “Cannon Bunker” sketch and a local resident, Wayne Potok recently custom framed it to remember his Dad, Charles Potok.

We included original photographs with the sketch and added an engraved brass plate giving pertinent details. The combination of items worked out very nicely.

Sadly many our WWII vets are not here share their experiences. Through photos we can share history and keep their memories alive.

79B37E7F-A810-46FA-B16C-44FE1252CE6E

“Vintage is Now” Day 17- Early 1900’s head shot and Ladies Business Card

Posted by on in Custom Framing, Vintage, Vintage is now
Custom framed photo and calling card
Early 1900’s photo and calling card.

Day 17 of Whispering Woods Gallery’s “Vintage is Now” series features a simple project that means a lot to me. This is an original photo of my grandmother Sophie with her calling card. Similar to a business card, a calling card announced your arrival when visiting. I feel honored to have this as it is a great reminder of my hard-working, determined grandmother.  It’s on display at Whispering Woods Gallery.

The Larson Juhl vintage style frame is perfect for the early 1900 period of the project. The open v-groove leads you from the photo to the calling card.  My choice was TruVue Museum Glass to protect from damaging UV light rays.

I know that Grandma would have approved! To see the complete series of “Vintage is Now” visit our Blog Page.

“Vintage is Now” Day 15-Memories of Mom and Dad

Posted by on in Custom Framing, For the Community, Photo Restoration, Vintage, Vintage is now
Framed pony and wedding photos
We combined pony and wedding photos in this vintage photo project

Day 15 of Whispering Woods Gallery’s “Vintage is Now” series is a unique combination. We combined three photos into one frame for Bill of Newtown, Pa. In the center we see Bill’s parents wedding photograph from 1957 and 1930’s pony pictures of his mom and dad from different parts of Philadelphia.  Bill’s mother grew up in the Tacony section of Philadelphia and his father grew up in West Philadelphia.  Both photos are from the age of five years old.

On a side note, many of us have pony pictures of family. They look wonderful custom framed. We love Bill’s idea of combining them with his parent’s wedding photo.  To read more on pony photographs we found a book that you might want to read- A Pony in the Picture: Vintage Portraits of Children and Ponies,  by Victoria Randall. 

For this project we scanned the photos and digitally manipulated the color of the trio to look pleasing together. We sized them to make an interesting arrangement. New copies were generated for this framed piece. The double mat of solid core matboard complements the Larson Juhl Marais frame. We included a brass plate with Bill’s parents names and the year that they were married. Bill is happy to have this sweet reminder of his parents and their happy memories many years ago.

If Bill looks familiar, you might have met him at a local appraisal event or at an antique show. He owns Imagine Antiques and Appraisals and specializes in early lithographs, political Americana, metalware,  American & European ceramics, ephemera, sports memorabilia, and pop culture.

Bill D’Anjolell of Imagine Antiques and Appraisals holds a custom framed trio of photos of his parents.

 

“Vintage is Now” Day 13- A Vintage Postcard and Snapshot

Posted by on in Custom Framing, Vintage, Vintage is now
Vintage photo and postcard custom framed
Mom and Dad met in the late 1940’s on Chelsea Beach in Atlantic City, NJ.

Welcome to Day 13 of Whispering Woods Gallery’s “Vintage is Now” series. This custom framing project is a fun one! This goes back to the late 1940’s where my Mom and Dad met on Chelsea Beach in Atlantic City, NJ. It was after WWII and Atlantic City was the place to be. I have included a vintage postcard of the approximate same time period in the same place. The building in back of my parents is the Ambassador and it is the middle building in the postcard.

The framing is simple. I used a beachy light wood with a gray wash and solid core white rag mats. It was challenging to make choice that went with both pieces. I cut the mat on my Computerized Mat Cutter. The frame is by a Pennsylvania manufacturer.

This is a project that makes a great gift and can be delivered quickly.  I have thousands of fun vintage postcards in the shop and we just need you to supply the photograph. What a great gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or graduation!