| What is “Conservation Framing”? |
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Everything deteriorates over time, relative to the exposure to the environment. Conservation framing is designed to minimize the deterioration of paper-based art and documents, while also avoiding contributory deterioration by the materials that surround the artwork. Special techniques and materials are used to protect the work. No process that is not reversible is used, allowing the artwork to be left in its original state. Conservation materials include a wood or metal frame, UV-protected glazing, the mat and/or spacer, the backing, and the hinging/mounting materials. All framing components must consist of 100% acid-free materials, as well as the hinging materials, which should also use a water-based adhesive. Heat- and pressure-sensitive adhesives (such as dry-mounting) should never be used when conservation framing is the goal, as they change character over time and can migrate into the paper. The artwork should also not be altered in any way—cut, trimmed, folded, glued—that alters it from its original state. It is prudent to point out here that not all artwork insists on conservation framing. One should consider the value of the artwork when determining whether conservation framing is necessary. Our framers can help you make an informed decision about what methods and materials are best for you. For more information on conservation framing, go to: http://www.loc.gov/preserv/care/mat.htm http://www.lenzarts.com/framing/conservation_terms.html |