Is this the right frame for my art?

All frames are unique and individual and at times it can be very overwhelming to find the perfect one. We are here to alleviate the stress and guide you through the options available to make sure that you find the perfect design for your artwork.

Today, framers have more mat board choices than ever before. It comes in different materials such as cotton or purified alpha cellulose, in different colors, thicknesses and treatments.

Make sure you consider not just the core materials but also backing and top layers. Most mats have a decorative surface layer and a backing layer that rests against the artwork. The decorative layer incorporates color, texture, fabric or pattern and although it doesn’t directly contact the artwork, the surface layer should also be chemically stable, light-fast and bleed resistant.

PRESERVING YOUR ARTWORK
Did you know that mats labeled acid free are really not a reliable indicator of quality? That term can be misleading. When a mat is produced it may be slightly alkaline, but as it ages the alkaline bugger will be used up and the mat will slowly turn acidic. A better term is “lignin free” as it is a better benchmark of quality when preservation is a factor.

Cotton, being naturally lignin-free, strong, long-fibered, and highly durable, is an ideal choice for matting materials. It has been a long standard for preservation framing and are ideal for long-term framing of items of value.

FOAMBOARDS
Although foam boards are not seen visually in framed piece, it plays an essential role in everyday framing. It is used as a lightweight, yet rigid substrate for dry mounting decorative artwork and can enhance and add depth to a piece.

It is our job to provide the best quality framing and to educate you on the features and benefits of different framing options as well as colors and patterns that are most suitable for your artwork! If you would like to learn more, contact us at sales@art-etc.com.

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