by Sonja W » Tue Aug 07, 2007 8:32 pm
Gena,
I am not familiar with picture framers in Louisville, but I did used to work for highly regarded art restoration/framing company in Chicago and would like to offer the following pointers for framing fine artwork.
1.) ALL materials that touch the artwork must be acid-free and archival: 100% rag mat and backing, and hinging. 100% rag boards are made of cotton fiber, not paper. Paper mats and backing are made of wood pulp, which contains acid and will eventually stain the artwork.
2.) The glass must not touch the artwork, which is why mats were invented. If you choose to go without a mat, make sure they build a spacer into the frame to lift the glass above the artwork.
3.) Use a UV-blocking glass. This is different from non-glare glass, which is not inherently UV-protective. UV glass prevents UV rays (found in sunlight and some artificial light) from fading the artwork. Even indirect light will eventually fade artwork if it is not blocked.
4.) Getting a custom-size frame made can be expensive. To save money without compromising the "health" of your artwork, find some ready-made frames that suit your pieces, then have everything done archivally. Ready-made frames come in standard sizes: 8x10", 9x12", 11x14", 16x20", 20x24", etc. You might find a good selection of ready-mades at one store and get your framing done at another.
5.) Always use TWO picture hooks to hang your artwork. If one gives out (which often happens), the other one will prevent the piece from crashing to the floor and destroying the frame and potentially your artwork ($$$). Two hooks also make it easier to keep a picture level.
6.) If possible, make sure your framer is a CPA (Certified Picture Framer). This may sound silly, but it's actually a very rigorous training for professional picture framers. You can then be assured that they are fully knowledgeable about archival methods, won't take shortcuts, and that your artwork is in good hands.
7.) Do not, under any circumstances, have fine artwork spray-mounted.
8.) Never hang fine artwork in a bathroom (humidity will destroy it) or over a working fireplace (ditto, heat).
Hope this helps!