Your art deserves the opportunity to be timeless.
Your most beloved artwork or photographs possess not only aesthetic value, but also hold sentimental significance (and oftentimes great monetary worth).
This is why it’s important to understand that, while it may seem relatively straightforward or insignificant, not all picture framing processes are created equal. Choosing the appropriate framing technique is actually critical when it comes time to enhance and preserve your valuable pieces.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between traditional and archival or acid-free framing, and will reveal just why choosing an archival framer in Toronto is the wisest choice you can make for your art.
What is Traditional Framing?
Traditional framing refers to the conventional method of framing art, and is the type of framing that’s been around the longest. Contrary to acid-free or conservation framing techniques, traditional framing methods involve the use of certain acid-containing materials such as acidic paper mats, cardboard backing boards, and adhesives, that unfortunately place the artwork or framed items at risk for undesirable changes and damage over time.
We’ll talk more about why this is below.
What Is Archival or Acid-Free Framing?
Acid-free or archival-quality framing is a modern preservation technique employed by professional framers, involving the use of materials containing a neutral pH balance (alkaline), thereby presenting a wealth of advantages for the art owner and artwork itself.
Furthermore, a key component of acid-free picture framing is the use of UV-protective glass, also known as UV-filtering glass, or museum glass. This is a unique type of glass specially designed to protect framed items from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Of course, we use museum glass at our east end framing shop every day!
Why Choose Acid-Free Art Framing Over Traditional Framing Methods?
There are a handful of undeniable reasons why anyone looking to frame their valued artwork, photographs or documents should opt for acid-free framing over traditional techniques, including the following considerations:
Long-Term Preservation: Through the prevention of yellowing, discolouration, fading or degradation caused by acidic materials, archival framing methods ensure that the integrity and beauty of your artwork remains intact, and your valuable items keep their original condition for years and years.
Protection From Environmental Damage: Acid-free materials create a protective shield against harmful environmental factors such as pollutants and moisture, that sadly can cause irreversible damage to your pieces over time. Needless to say, it’s smarter to work with a framer near you that employs the right techniques to ensure the safeguarding of your important items.
Safer Handling and Showcasing: Acid-free techniques present a safer option for handling and displaying framed artwork, and is even particularly beneficial for individuals with certain allergies or sensitivities to chemicals. Conversely, the acidic components used in traditional framing processes can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can trigger respiratory issues or worsen existing allergies in susceptible individuals.
Allows for Future Adjustments: Yet another benefit of archival framing techniques is that they allow for smooth and easy adjustments, such as re-framing your artwork down the line without any risk of damage. This is due to the fact that acid-free materials are not as likely to adhere to, and therefore damage, these framed items over time - granting you the flexibility to do as you please with your art in the future.
Environmentally Conscious: Compared to traditional framing processes, archival framing is certainly the ecologically friendly option, as it does not involve the use of ungreen or environmentally harmful materials.
Meets Professional Standards: Acid-free processes meet the highest professional standards in the world of art and framing - with many galleries, museums and conservationists advocating acid-free thanks to its superior preservation qualities.
Preserve the Beauty of Your Valued Artwork with Our Acid-Free Framer in Leslieville
Experienced framers with a commitment to preservation, like our Andy Smith of Allen Gallery Framing, possess a deeper understanding of conservation techniques and the involved materials - ensuring only the best treatment for your most beloved possessions.
Furthermore, choosing acid-free won’t ever require you to compromise on frame style or design. In fact, our reputable framers offer a vast range of acid-free frame styles, mat colours, and customization options to suit your unique preferences.
Allen Gallery Framing in Toronto has the expertise and care required to carry out a framing job you can truly feel good about.
Reach out to us to learn more about the archival framing services we offer, or to schedule your consultation with our framing expert today!