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Picture Framing

Picture framing is the perfect way to finish off and display a piece of art. Done right, the appropriate framing package will not only enhance the picture - but will help preserve it for many years. I have over 11 years experience as a professional picture framer working both in retail establishments in addition to operating out of my own studio for the past four years. In this section you will find information regarding key elements and what is involved in the process.

When choosing a frame combination there are a few things to consider. The first is the artwork. The goal is to choose a frame/matting combination that enhances, yet not overpowers your image. Try to select a complimentary color scheme that works with the picture as well as your decor. Plan ahead and determine in advance where the finished artwork to going to be displayed. This, along with the image will give you a good place to start. It's always smart to go with "softer" tones initially so as to not compete with the piece. Other considerations are the overall finished size and space required in addition to price/budget. Keep in mind that individual tastes vary so base your decisions on what you feel is best.

The Business of Framing

The most common comment I hear from people regarding custom picture framing is "I didn't realize that it was so expensive!". It's a common complaint but they're right - it's not cheap. There are a few reasons behind this. Most people don't realize all of the components that are required to do the job right. There is much more involved than simply sticking a picture in a frame and hanging some wire on it. There are costs involved. These include the supplies : frame, mat(s), glass, foam core, hinging tape, framers points, atg tape, backing paper, bump-ons, wire & hanging hardware. The equipment required for cutting the mat(s) & cutting/joining the frames is not cheap either. And of course the time spent preparing & assembling. If it's a retail shop providing the service it's going to have even more expenses such as leasing, employees, displays etc.

Unfortunately, the end result of all these costs incurred are hefty prices at the retail level. There is substantial mark-up within the picture framing industry. Even so, it never ceases to amaze me when I see some of the outrageous quotes that "reputable" frame shops provide customers with. If price is an important consideration to you, I suggest you shop around and get several quotes to choose from. Just ensure that the job gets done right with the appropriate materials.

On the other side of the coin are the mass-produced, "Made in China" frames available at every Walmart & Zellers. These frames, while appealingly inexpensive, are usually lacking in quality and are not suitable for framing original or valued artwork.

Conservation Picture Framing

This is definitely the way to go if you are framing something special and want it to last for a long time. All materials involved in the process work in conjunction to help preserve and protect your artwork. The main concerns with regards to artwork are light, temperature and humidity.

Light & Glass The sun's rays are bright - no secret there. If your want to find out just how bright try leaving a newspaper in direct sunlight for a week and check out the discoloration that occurs. Newspaper is printed on lousy quality paper which is also very acidic (which helps to accelerate the decomposition rate) - but, left unprotected in direct or bright light, almost anything will fade or discolor over time. And it's not just the sun... Florescent lights are also very harsh. All drawings and prints should be behind glass when framed to protect from dust, smoke, humidity. (paintings & canvas prints are another story) But all glass is not created equal. Regular clear glass provides approximately 45% UV Protection. Non-glare regular glass is no better - still around 45%. Conservation glass is more than twice as effective at 97% UV Protection but it is also 2-3 times the price. Also worth mentioning in regards to light - If you leave a framed picture in direct light, chances are humidity - in the form of small drops of moisture - will form on the inside of your glass. Moisture inside a frame is bad. Bad for the matting, bad for the artwork. Avoid hanging framed artwork in direct sunlight and other areas of your home that are prone to humidity or temperature changes.

Matboard Matboard is the border material that separates the artwork from the frame. The artwork is usually hinged at the top and can viewed through the beveled opening. Mats come in a variety of colors and several different qualities for varied applications. Most importantly, matboard keeps the artwork from touching the glass. The matboard, tape, along with the backing material used, are the only materials that actually come in direct contact with the artwork. It is crucial that these materials do not have a negative impact on the artwork over time. I highly recommend that you use only acid-free matboards for all your projects. The best mats are museum quality conservation grade and are comprised of 100% cotton rag. Most quality acid-free matboards are also fade resistant & lignin free.

Pets & Portraits offers free acid-free matting and foam core backing with any custom commission!