Conservation (or preservation, or archival) framing is a method of picture framing that preserves and protects artwork. It ensures that all the materials used in framing and matting will not harm the artwork, and will, as much as possible, protect the artwork from physical damage. Professional picture framers are trained in the proper techniques and materials for preservation framing.
If artwork is not properly framed in a preservation manner, it can fade, yellow, stain, even be burned by acids in inferior framing materials – causing irreparable damage and loss of value and beauty.
Because conservation framing materials are made to be permanent, they feature colors that will not fade and cores that are pure and clean – attributes that will maintain the aesthetics of your framed pieces for years to come.
In addition, preservation framing protects the integrity and value – be it monetary or emotional – of all your artwork, photographs and memorabilia, preserving and protecting for the enjoyment of the next generation.
What We Do to Protect Your Work…
Conservation glass safeguards works against damaging ultraviolet light, blocking up to 97% of the harmful ultraviolet spectrum, significantly reducing fading due to light exposure. For comparison, regular glass blocks approximately 47% of the ultraviolet spectrum.
100% cotton rag mat, manufactured to Library of Congress standards. It is bleed/fade resistant and both acid and lignin free. (As lignin, a natural component of paper pulp and ordinary paper mats, grows old and breaks down a secondary acidification occurs.) Most of our mats are also alkaline pH buffered, offering extended protection from environmental pollutants (the air has a slightly acidic pH). However, we do carry a non-buffered, light cream mat for specific applications.
Conservation mounting utilizes archival quality backing and mounting materials combined with conservation mounting techniques. All materials must be stable, completely reversible and minimize exposure of the work to adhesives. The “best” technique varies depending upon the exact nature of the object being framed.
Finishing touches include a chemically inert, lightweight, extremely tear and puncture resistant backing material on all wooden frames. The backing material provides protection from damage by insects, dust and other environmental hazards.
