As an art collector or someone who simply cherishes a special memory, you want to ensure that your cherished piece is well-preserved and will last for years to come. This is where conservation framing comes in.
Conservation framing is a technique used by professional framers to protect artwork and memorabilia from environmental factors such as UV rays, acid migration, and pollutants. A framer who specializes in conservation framing is knowledgeable about the latest techniques and materials to ensure that your valuable artwork and memories are protected.
Here are the steps that a professional framer takes to ensure that your cherished piece is well-preserved:
Step 1: Choosing the Right Materials The first step in conservation framing is choosing the right materials. A professional framer will use archival-quality materials that are acid-free and lignin-free, which will help prevent acid migration. They will also use UV-filtering glass or acrylic to protect against harmful UV rays that can fade or damage your artwork.
Step 2: Proper Mounting The next step is proper mounting. A professional framer will use a variety of techniques to mount your artwork, including hinging, mounting, and matting. Hinging is a popular method where the artwork is attached to a mat board using archival tape or Japanese paper hinges. This method ensures that the artwork is not damaged by adhesive, which can cause staining or even worse damage.
Step 3: Creating a Barrier The third step in conservation framing is creating a barrier between your artwork and the outside environment. This barrier can be created by using a backing board, mat board, or spacers. Backing board is used to create a flat surface for the artwork to rest on, while spacers are used to create a gap between the artwork and the glazing material.
Step 4: Sealing the Frame The final step is sealing the frame. A professional framer will ensure that the frame is sealed properly to protect against pollutants and moisture. They will use a dust cover on the back of the frame to prevent dust and debris from entering the frame.
In conclusion, conservation framing is an important technique used by professional framers to protect valuable artwork and memories. By choosing the right materials, proper mounting, creating a barrier, and sealing the frame, your cherished piece will be well-preserved and protected from environmental factors. If you have a valuable piece that you want to preserve, be sure to seek out a professional framer who specializes in conservation framing.