Protect Your Memories with Proper Framing Techniques

Why Proper Framing Matters

Framing is more than just putting a photo or artwork behind glass. It is a preservation method that protects your memories from environmental factors that cause fading, discoloration, and physical damage. Without the right materials and techniques, your precious items can suffer irreversible harm.

Common Risks to Framed Memories

• Acid Damage: Many papers and photographs contain acids that cause yellowing and brittleness over time. If the framing materials are not acid-free, these acids can accelerate deterioration.

• UV Light Exposure: Sunlight and artificial light emit ultraviolet rays that fade colors and weaken paper fibers.

• Moisture and Dust: Improper sealing allows moisture and dust to enter, leading to mold growth and surface damage.

• Physical Stress: Without proper backing and sealing, items can warp, crease, or shift inside the frame.

  
  

Understanding these risks highlights why investing in quality framing materials and techniques is essential.

Key Components of Protective Framing

Wood Fillet and Framer’s Tape

A wood fillet is a thin strip of wood used inside the frame to create space between the glass and the artwork. This gap prevents the artwork from sticking to the glass, which can cause damage.

Framer’s tape seals the back of the frame, protecting the contents from dust, insects, and moisture. It also helps keep the frame structure tight and secure.

If your frame has a wood fillet but no framer’s tape, the protection is incomplete. Dust and moisture can still enter, putting your memory at risk.

Acid-Free Materials

Acid-free mats, backing boards, and tapes are crucial. These materials do not contain harmful acids that cause yellowing and brittleness. Using acid-free materials slows down the natural aging process of paper and photographs.

For example, a family photo framed with standard matting may start to yellow within a few years, while the same photo framed with acid-free matting can remain vibrant for decades.

UV Protection Glass

Glass with UV protection filters out harmful ultraviolet rays that cause fading. Regular glass offers no such protection, allowing light to degrade colors and paper fibers.

UV protection glass can block up to 99% of UV rays, significantly extending the life of your framed memories.

Practical Tips for Ensuring Your Memories Are Protected

• Ask your framer about materials: Confirm that acid-free mats, backing, and framer’s tape are used.

• Choose UV protection glass or acrylic: This is especially important for items displayed in bright rooms or near windows.

• Inspect the frame’s sealing: Ensure the back is sealed with framer’s tape to keep out dust and moisture.

• Avoid direct sunlight: Even with UV protection, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause damage.

• Use a wood fillet or spacer: This prevents the artwork from touching the glass.

• Regularly check your framed items: Look for signs of moisture, mold, or fading and address issues promptly.

  
  

Examples of Proper vs. Improper Framing

Imagine two wedding photos, both framed with wood fillets. The first uses acid-free mats, UV protection glass, and framer’s tape. The second uses standard mats, regular glass, and no framer’s tape.

After 10 years, the first photo remains vibrant and intact. The second shows yellowing mats, faded colors, and dust trapped inside the frame. This example shows how proper framing techniques preserve memories for the long term.

When to Reframe Your Memories

If your framed items are older than 10 years or show signs of damage, consider reframing them using proper materials. Professional framers can safely remove old mats and glass and replace them with archival-quality components.

Reframing is an investment in preserving your memories for future generations.

The Importance of Choosing a Trusted Framing Service

Selecting the right framing service is crucial. You want to ensure that your cherished items are handled with care and expertise. A trusted framer will use high-quality materials and techniques to protect your memories. They can guide you through the options available, helping you make informed decisions.

In Lenoir, NC, I recommend visiting Lenoir Frameworks. They specialize in custom framing and understand the importance of preserving your memories. Their expert design and craftsmanship will ensure your artwork and keepsakes are beautifully displayed and protected.

Conclusion: Preserve Your Cherished Memories

Every photo and artwork tells a story. By investing in proper framing techniques, you can ensure that these stories remain vibrant for generations to come. Protect your memories with care, using acid-free materials, UV protection glass, and proper sealing techniques.

Remember, your memories deserve the best protection. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals who can help you achieve this. Your cherished items will thank you for it.