What is professional art framing? Professional art framing is the practice of using high-quality materials and techniques to protect, enhance, and display artwork, often involving custom sizing, archival methods, and specialized glass. Can I frame art myself? Yes, you can frame art yourself, but professional framing offers superior protection and aesthetic appeal, especially for valuable or delicate pieces. Who is professional art framing for? It’s for anyone who wants to preserve and showcase their artwork beautifully, from collectors to homeowners.
Framing your art isn’t just about putting a picture in a box. It’s about safeguarding your cherished pieces, enhancing their visual appeal, and ensuring they last for generations. Whether you’re dealing with a priceless oil painting, a delicate watercolor, a cherished photograph, or even a unique textile, the right framing makes all the difference. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for framing art professionally, covering everything from choosing the right materials to understanding advanced techniques.
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The Importance of Professional Framing
Why bother with professional framing? The reasons are manifold, extending beyond mere aesthetics.
- Preservation: This is paramount. Archival framing techniques and materials are crucial for protecting your artwork from damage caused by light, humidity, dust, and even the framing components themselves. Over time, standard materials can degrade and leach harmful acids, damaging your art.
- Aesthetics: The right frame complements and elevates your artwork. It can highlight colors, draw attention to specific details, and integrate the piece seamlessly into your décor. A poorly chosen frame can detract from even the most beautiful artwork.
- Value: Professional framing can increase the perceived and actual value of your artwork. It signals care, quality, and attention to detail, which are highly valued by collectors and art enthusiasts.
- Protection from Damage: Beyond environmental factors, framing provides physical protection against scratches, tears, and other accidental damage during handling and display.
The Cornerstones of Professional Framing
Professional framing involves several key components working in harmony. Let’s delve into each one.
Custom Framing: Tailoring to Your Art
When we talk about professional framing, custom framing often comes to mind. This isn’t about picking a pre-made frame off the shelf. It’s about creating a frame specifically designed for your artwork. This involves precise measurements, specialized cuts, and careful assembly.
Custom framing ensures:
- Perfect Fit: The artwork is housed without stress or gaps, preventing movement and potential damage.
- Aesthetic Cohesion: The frame’s style, color, and size are chosen to perfectly complement the artwork and its intended environment.
- Material Selection: You can choose archival-quality materials that offer the best protection and longevity.
- Unique Designs: For those with rare or unusually sized artwork, custom framing is the only way to achieve a professional and protective finish.
Picture Framing Techniques: The Art of Assembly
Mastering picture framing techniques is what separates a professional job from a hobbyist one. These techniques ensure both structural integrity and visual perfection.
Key techniques include:
- Mounting: Securely attaching the artwork to a backing board. This can range from simple dry mounting (often not recommended for valuable art) to hinging with archival tapes or using tension mounting systems.
- Mitre Cutting: Creating precise 45-degree angle cuts on frame mouldings so they join at the corners to form a perfect frame.
- Joinery: Using staples, v-nails, or glue to secure the mitred corners, ensuring a strong and seamless joint.
- Backing: Adding a rigid backing board to provide support and rigidity to the framed piece.
- Dust Cover: Applying a protective backing paper to the rear of the frame to prevent dust and insects from entering.
- Hanging Hardware: Attaching appropriate D-rings, wire, or cleats for secure and stable hanging.
Matting Artwork: Enhancing Focus and Space
Matting artwork is a critical step in professional framing, serving multiple purposes. A mat is the decorative border that sits between the artwork and the frame.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: Mats draw the viewer’s eye into the artwork, creating a visual focal point. They can provide a pleasing border, separating the art from the frame and background.
- Spacing: A well-chosen mat creates breathing room around the artwork, preventing it from touching the glass, which can cause moisture buildup and sticking.
- Protection: Archival-quality mats, made from acid-free materials, help protect the artwork from contact with the glass and can absorb some airborne pollutants.
When matting artwork, consider:
- Mat Width: Wider mats can make smaller pieces feel more substantial, while narrower mats might suit larger works or minimalist aesthetics.
- Mat Color: The color should complement the artwork without overpowering it. Neutral tones like white, cream, or grey are common, but subtle colors can also be effective.
- V-Grooves: A decorative channel cut into the mat’s surface, often along the inner or outer edge, adding a subtle layer of sophistication.
- Multiple Mats: Layering mats of different colors or widths can create depth and visual interest.
Conservation Framing: Protecting for the Future
For valuable, historical, or sentimental artwork, conservation framing is essential. This approach prioritizes the long-term preservation of the artwork using only the finest archival materials and methods.
What distinguishes conservation framing?
- Acid-Free Materials: All paper products (mats, backing boards, hinging tapes) must be certified acid-free and lignin-free to prevent yellowing and degradation.
- UV-Protective Glass: Minimizes damage from ultraviolet light, which can fade colors and degrade paper over time.
- pH-Neutral Adhesives: Only reversible and pH-neutral adhesives are used for hinging or mounting.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensuring adequate air circulation within the frame to prevent moisture buildup.
- No Direct Contact with Glass: Artwork is kept at a distance from the glass, typically using a mat or spacers, to prevent sticking and condensation damage.
Choosing Your Framing Materials
The selection of framing materials is crucial for both the appearance and longevity of your framed art.
Framing Materials: The Building Blocks
The term framing materials encompasses everything used to construct the frame and prepare the artwork for display.
Table 1: Essential Framing Materials
| Material | Purpose | Considerations for Professional Framing |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Moulding | The outer border of the frame. | Material (wood, metal, acrylic), style, finish, durability, acid-free backing. |
| Mat Board | Decorative and protective border around the artwork. | Acid-free, lignin-free, archival quality; single or multiple layers; bevel cut; V-grooves; color selection. |
| Glass/Glazing | Protects artwork from dust, damage, and UV light. | Standard glass, UV-protective glass, anti-reflective glass, acrylic (Plexiglass), UV-protective acrylic. |
| Backing Board | Provides structural support to the artwork and frame. | Acid-free foam core, mounting board, or conservation board. Must be rigid and stable. |
| Hinging Tape | Archival-quality tape used to attach artwork to the mat or backing. | Japanese paper tapes (like Kozo) or linen tapes; water-activated; pH-neutral and reversible. |
| Mounting Board | Often used to mount prints or photos before matting. | Acid-free foam board or conservation board; can be dry-mounted (with caution) or hinged. |
| Dust Cover | Protective paper applied to the back of the framed piece. | Acid-free kraft paper or other breathable archival paper. |
| Hardware | Components for hanging the framed art (wire, D-rings, screws). | Strong, corrosion-resistant materials; appropriately sized for the frame and artwork weight. |
| Spacers | Used to create a gap between the artwork and the glass when a mat is not used or is very thin. | Acid-free wood, plastic, or card stock. |
Choosing Frame Mouldings: The Visual Anchor
The choosing frame mouldings is a significant decision. The moulding sets the tone and style for the entire piece.
Factors to consider when choosing mouldings:
- Material:
- Wood: Offers a classic, warm look. Varieties range from economical pine to luxurious hardwoods. It can be painted, stained, or gilded.
- Metal: Aluminum or steel frames provide a sleek, modern, or industrial look. They are durable and often have a clean, minimalist profile.
- Acrylic/Resin: Can mimic wood or metal or offer unique colors and finishes. They are lightweight and can be very contemporary.
- Style:
- Ornate: Intricate carvings and decorative details. Best for traditional or baroque art.
- Simple/Modern: Clean lines and minimalist profiles. Suitable for contemporary art, photography, and abstract pieces.
- Rustic: Often feature distressed finishes or natural wood grains. Fits country or bohemian decor.
- Finish: Consider the color, texture, and sheen of the moulding. Does it have a matte, satin, or high-gloss finish? Is it painted, stained, or gilded?
- Width: A wider moulding will make a stronger statement and is often better suited for larger artworks or bolder pieces. Narrower mouldings are more discreet.
- Depth: The depth of the frame is important for accommodating mats, glazing, and the artwork itself. It also contributes to the overall visual weight of the piece.
- Compatibility with Artwork: The moulding should enhance, not compete with, the artwork. It should match the period, style, and mood of the piece.
Glass Options for Art: Clarity and Protection
The choice of glass options for art impacts both clarity and protection.
- Standard Glass: Offers basic protection against dust and minor impacts. It can cause glare and does not protect against UV light.
- UV-Protective Glass (UV Glass): Filters out up to 99% of damaging UV rays. Essential for preventing fading of colors and degradation of paper. Available in clear or with anti-reflective properties.
- Anti-Reflective Glass (Museum Glass): Reduces glare significantly, making the artwork appear clearer and more vibrant. Often combined with UV protection for the ultimate in visual clarity and preservation. It’s typically more expensive.
- Acrylic (Plexiglass): Lighter and more shatter-resistant than glass, making it a good option for large pieces or areas where safety is a concern. However, it can scratch more easily and may attract dust due to static. UV-protective acrylic is also available.
Table 2: Glass Options Comparison
| Glass Type | UV Protection | Anti-Reflective | Shatter Resistance | Weight | Scratch Resistance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Glass | No | No | Moderate | Heavy | Moderate | Low |
| UV-Protective Glass | Yes | No | Moderate | Heavy | Moderate | Medium |
| Anti-Reflective Glass | No | Yes | Moderate | Heavy | Moderate | High |
| UV-Protective AR Glass | Yes | Yes | Moderate | Heavy | Moderate | Very High |
| Acrylic (Plexiglass) | No | No | High | Light | Low | Medium |
| UV-Protective Acrylic | Yes | No | High | Light | Low | High |
DIY Picture Framing: When to Take the Plunge
While professional framers offer expertise and specialized tools, DIY picture framing can be a rewarding option for less valuable pieces or for those who enjoy a hands-on approach.
Framing Tools and Supplies for DIY
If you decide to go the DIY route, you’ll need specific framing tools and supplies.
Essential DIY Framing Tools and Supplies:
- Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements of artwork and frame components.
- Craft Knife/Mat Cutter: For precise cutting of mat board and backing. A Logan mat cutter is a popular choice for straight cuts.
- Metal Ruler: Essential for guiding your cuts and ensuring straight lines.
- Corner Clamp or Framing Vise: To hold frame mouldings together while gluing and securing.
- Brad Nailer or Stapler: For securing frame corners and attaching backing.
- Saw: For cutting frame mouldings. A mitre saw or a Japanese pull saw with a mitre box is ideal for precise 45-degree cuts.
- Glue: Wood glue for frame joints.
- Archival Tape: For hinging artwork.
- Backing Board and Mat Board: Purchase acid-free options for better preservation.
- Glass or Acrylic: You can often get custom-cut glass or acrylic at a local hardware or glass store.
- Dust Cover Paper and Stapler: To seal the back.
- Hanging Hardware: D-rings, wire, and screws.
The DIY Framing Process: Step-by-Step
- Measure Your Artwork: Accurately measure the height and width of your artwork.
- Plan Your Matting: Decide if you want a mat. If so, determine the desired border width. Add the mat width to your artwork dimensions to get the opening size for the mat.
- Measure for the Frame: Measure the outer dimensions of your mat or artwork. This will determine the inner dimensions of your frame. Add extra for the mitre joint overlap.
- Cut Mouldings: Using a mitre saw or box, carefully cut four pieces of moulding to the required lengths, ensuring precise 45-degree angles.
- Assemble the Frame: Apply wood glue to the mitred edges and join them using a corner clamp. Reinforce with staples or brad nails. Let the glue dry completely.
- Prepare the Artwork: If matting, cut your mat board to size using a mat cutter. Cut the opening for the artwork using a reverse bevel cut. Hinge your artwork to the mat using archival tape.
- Insert Artwork and Glazing: Place the glass or acrylic into the frame, followed by the mat (with artwork attached) or the artwork itself. Add spacers if needed to keep the artwork off the glass.
- Add Backing: Place the backing board against the artwork and glazing.
- Secure the Assembly: Turn the frame face down. Use a staple gun or brad nailer to secure the backing board to the frame.
- Apply Dust Cover: Cover the back of the frame with archival dust cover paper, stapling it neatly around the edges.
- Attach Hanging Hardware: Screw D-rings into the sides of the frame and attach picture wire.
When to Seek Professional Art Installation
While framing is one aspect, the final presentation often involves professional art installation. For heavier pieces, complex arrangements, or artworks in high-traffic areas, professional installation ensures safety and optimal display.
Why consider professional installation?
- Safety: Professionals have the knowledge and tools to securely hang even the heaviest pieces, preventing accidents.
- Placement: They can advise on and execute the best placement for your artwork, considering lighting, wall space, and overall room aesthetics.
- Wall Protection: They know how to hang art without damaging walls unnecessarily and can use appropriate wall anchors for different wall types.
- Efficiency: For multiple pieces or large collections, professionals can complete the job quickly and efficiently.
- Insurance: Some professional installers are insured, offering peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How much does professional framing cost?
A: The cost varies significantly depending on the size of the artwork, the type of moulding, the glass chosen, and whether matting or conservation techniques are used. Custom framing can range from $100 to several thousand dollars.
Q2: Can I reuse old frames?
A: While you can reuse frames, it’s crucial to ensure they are sturdy and that any old backing or acidic materials are removed and replaced with archival-quality alternatives if you are framing valuable artwork.
Q3: How do I clean framed art?
A: For the glass, use a standard glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Avoid spraying directly onto the frame, as moisture can damage the wood or finish. For dust on the frame, use a soft brush or a slightly damp cloth.
Q4: What is the difference between a mat and a mount?
A: In framing, these terms are often used interchangeably. A “mat” typically refers to the border that sits between the artwork and the glass, while a “mount” can refer to the backing board the artwork is attached to, or sometimes a wider border than a typical mat.
Q5: Is it necessary to frame every piece of art?
A: Not necessarily. Some art, like certain contemporary pieces or textiles, might be displayed using alternative methods like stretching or mounting on panels. However, for most paper-based or canvas artworks, framing provides essential protection and enhances presentation.
Q6: How do I know if I need conservation framing?
A: If your artwork is valuable, antique, irreplaceable, or sentimental, conservation framing is highly recommended. This includes watercolors, pastels, valuable prints, photographs, and any artwork on fragile paper.
Q7: What are the benefits of using spacers instead of a mat?
A: Spacers create a gap between the artwork and the glass, preventing sticking and moisture buildup, similar to a mat. They are often used when a minimalist look is desired or when the artwork is very thin and a mat would be too bulky. They must be made of archival materials.
Framing your art is an investment in its beauty and longevity. By understanding the principles of professional framing, from selecting the right framing materials and mastering picture framing techniques to appreciating the nuances of matting artwork and the importance of conservation framing, you can ensure your art is showcased at its absolute best for years to come. Whether you choose the precision of custom framing or embark on a DIY picture framing project, remember that quality and care are the keys to professional results.