



Conservation Framing...
Picture framing provides an attractive presentation for art and objects, but it serves another important function as well: protection. Framing can protect against damage from common environmental sources such as light, moisture, insects, and handling.
Conservation Framing (sometimes called preservation framing) is the practice of framing art and objects using the most protective methods and materials available. It begins with the materials that will touch the art. This includes the board that rests behind the art, the matboard that touches the front of the art, and the adhesive or other material that holds the artwork in place. All materials must be acid-free and stable, and the artwork should be able to be removed from the framing without tearing or staining the art. The glass used in Conservation Framing can be an important part of the protection of the art, because excessive light can be damaging to many types of artwork. We offer Conservation and Museum glass that are made especially for framing. They provide protection from UV rays. We will offer you Conservation Framing materials and techniques whenever you have something of value framed—whether the value is monetary or sentimental. Do not assume that Conservation Framing will be expensive; the cost is often not much more than ordinary framing, and the protection provided to your valuable artwork is a worthwhile investment for the future.
In Conservation Framing, space is provided between the art and the glass, to allow room for air circulation. Without this space, changes in temperature and humidity can cause condensation of moisture inside the frame, leading to formation of mold, or even causing the art to stick to the glass (this is especially a problem with glossy photographs.) The necessary space is often provided by mats or spacers.