Why Museum Framing
Museum Framing is a framing operation providing the materials and techniques which exceeds the strict STANDARDS of the Library of Congress and National Archives. Our clients include some of the most renowned museums and galleries in the United States.
We are members of the following organizations and adhere to their strict ethical standards:
- Manuscript Society
- Washington Conservation Guild
- American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works
- American Numismatic Association
Our frames are handmade in the United States by experienced framers.
We carry Forest Stewardship Council Products (FSC) products. These products adhere to principles and criteria for forest managment.
Don't fall for the "acid free" nonsense!
This is wood pulp-based mat board that has been buffered to a neutral pH. The problem with this is that over time, these mats will stain the perimeter of your artwork. This is called a "mat burn".
Whether you chose our Museum Frames, Preservation Framing Services, or Volume Framing, we use the followig guidelines:
- We ONLY use 100% Museum Rag mat board and backing, which is the HIGHEST quality available on the marketplace!
AVOID foam backing, even "acid free"! All foamcore backing outgasses which deteriorates and discolors over time. - The glazing (trade term for glass or acrylic) we use is also museum quality. It is important that the glass or acrylic which contains the artwork, document or artifact consist of 98% UV filtering properties as recommended by The International Organization for Standardization.
- Even when we use decorative framing styles, like French Matting, Handwrapped fabrics, we place an archival 4 ply rag barrier around the artwork to protect it. Sometimes, depending on the medium of the item, we may encapsulate it in mylar sleeve. Deacidification if needed.
Our own line of Museum Frames, with our patent pending frame backing system, consists of techniques used to protect the item being framed from outside contaminants and provide a secure, finished appearance.
TIP: "One bit of advice; Even with the techniques and materials we use, always avoid hanging anything in DIRECT sunlight!"
Your artwork is preserved with the best materials on the market and will last for many years of enjoyment. Our clients know we take their framing seriously and deliver the best care possible. Many are still clients from our inception since 1989!
