Conservation Framing and Glazing
Conservation framing (also known as archival framing), uses techniques and materials for maximum preservation of the content against environmental degradation and fading from light. Fastframe uses only 99% UV resistant glazing, and acid-free mats and glues in all our work, ensuring your valuable or cherished art, photos, textiles, etc., will look great for years to come. We also offer museum framing, a step beyond conservation framing for the ultimate in preservation and display, and is recommended for expensive or irreplaceable artwork or other framed items.
Consider:
- While they may seem cheaper in the short run, almost no off-the-shelf, ready-made frames offer even basic conservation materials.
- Ready-made frames rarely have glass with effective UV protection.
- Also beware of inexpensive online services, where the quality of the glass, matting, mounting glues and tape are unknown
- Shipping may unnecessarily risk damaging items you can’t replace (e.g. artwork, autographed sports memorabilia).
Unfortunately, we routinely see irreversible damage and fading caused by poor workmanship, acidic materials, cheap glass, or all three. All too often, we’re asked to correctly re–frame pieces damaged because of or by inferior workmanship and materials (see pictures below). Even worse, we see some irreplaceable items damaged during shipping from online services — and that we can’t fix. While we do offer expert picture frame repair, needless to say, framing things twice is not cheaper in the long run. That’s why, if you care about it, we urge you to use a reputable, local frame shop.
When framing a sentimental or vintage piece of artwork, preservation methods should be at the forefront of your mind. From our protective Glazing, to our acid-free materials and industry approved mounting techniques, Fastframe picture frames enable you to enjoy your art and photographs for many years to come without the worry of damage or fading. For important or expensive works, we also offer museum grade framing for the ultimate in preservation and visual appeal.
Fastframe’s Conservation Framing Approach
Ultraviolet rays from indoor and outdoor light can damage and fade artwork, photographs, documents and collectibles. Our conservation picture framing uses 99% UV resistant, preservation glazing (glass), non-acidic mats and mounting boards on all framing projects. By using these exceptional products, we envelop your art in a completely acid-free environment, protecting it from degradation, fading, and deterioration. This keeps your artwork in prime condition year after year. Additionally, a preservation framing approach is completely reversible — unlike some bargain and online framers who use acidic glue. Preservation framing allows your artwork to be removed from its frame in its original condition should you ever wish to re-frame a special piece of art or memorabilia.
Optional Museum Grade Framing
Widely acknowledged as the most protective form of framing available, the main difference between Museum and Preservation framing is the quality of the products used. In Museum framing, we use only Museum quality mats and mounting boards as well as Museum quality mounting products. Museum glass / glazing not only provides UV protection, but also scatters incoming light, with the great benefit of minimized glare and reflections on the glass. Your works, just as in museums, are easier to view clearly, even in bright rooms or environments. Museum framing offers the ultimate protection for your valuable artwork. Museum framing is recommended when framing expensive or original artwork.
Also See: our canvas framing work and services.