What Is Archival Picture Framing

At Sherman Gallery in Los Angeles, California, we're dedicated to ensuring that your cherished artworks receive the highest level of care and protection. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the significance of archival framing and provide detailed insights into the materials and techniques we employ to safeguard your precious pieces.

Understanding Archival Picture Framing:

Archival picture framing is a meticulous process aimed at protecting artworks from deterioration over time. At Sherman Gallery, we prioritize the use of archival materials, which are specifically designed to prevent damage caused by acidity, UV rays, and other environmental factors.

Materials Used in Archival Picture Framing:

Matting options

Acid-Free Matboard

Acid-free matboard serves as a protective barrier between the artwork and the frame. Unlike traditional matboards, which contain acidic components that can harm the artwork, acid-free matboards are formulated to be pH-neutral, lignin-free, and free from harmful chemicals. This ensures that the matboard will not cause acid burn or discoloration to the artwork over time.

Conservation Mounting Techniques

Conservation mounting involves securing the artwork to the matboard using techniques that minimize the risk of damage. At Sherman Gallery, we employ conservation mounting methods that avoid the use of adhesives or tapes, which can degrade and damage the artwork over time. Instead, we use archival mounting corners or hinges to securely mount the artwork while preserving its integrity.

Plexi Glass UV Protecting Options.

UV-Protective Glass

UV-protective glass is essential for safeguarding artwork from the damaging effects of UV rays. We use UV-protective glass that is specially coated to block harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can cause fading and deterioration of the artwork over time. This UV protection helps to maintain the vibrancy and longevity of your artwork, ensuring that it remains pristine for years to come.

Art Storage

Aside from the obvious dangers of storing art like bending or general damage how should you store your art? There are a few factors that you need to think with when you think about safely storing artwork, and they are: humidity, heat, light, and air pollution. In storing art, we are trying to avoid mold growth, the paper becoming brittle and the ink or paint colors remaining intact and not fading.

Download our free step-by-step guide and store your art correctly!

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We understand the importance of preserving your art investment. Our commitment to archival framing means that your artwork will be protected from acidity, UV rays, and other environmental factors that can cause damage over time. With our use of acid-free matboards, conservation mounting techniques, and UV-protective glass, you can trust us to safeguard your treasures and preserve their beauty for generations to come.