Framing art prints isn’t just about making them look good - it’s about keeping them safe. Without proper framing, prints can fade, warp, or deteriorate due to UV rays, humidity, and pollutants. To protect your artwork for years, follow these five essential tips:
- Use Acid-Free and Archival Materials: Choose acid-free mat boards, lignin-free paper, and pH-neutral adhesives to prevent damage like yellowing or brittleness.
- Opt for UV-Protective Glass or Acrylic: Shield your prints from harmful UV rays with glazing that blocks up to 99% of UV light.
- Avoid Sunlight and Heat: Keep artwork away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and fluctuating humidity to prevent fading and warping.
- Mount Prints Properly: Use float mounting or spacers to keep the print away from the glass and avoid adhesives that can damage the artwork.
- Seal Frames to Block Dust and Moisture: Use sealing tape, backing paper, and moisture barriers to protect against pollutants and humidity.
Each step ensures your prints stay vibrant and intact over time. Whether it’s a family photo or a limited-edition piece, investing in proper framing materials and techniques is key to preserving their beauty and value.
How To Professionally Frame Your Artwork at Home!
1. Use Acid-Free and Archival Materials
The materials you choose for framing play a huge role in how long your prints will last. Standard framing supplies often contain acids that can harm your artwork over time, causing the paper to yellow, become brittle, and even disintegrate. This kind of damage not only affects how your artwork looks but can also reduce its value.
What Are Archival Materials?
Archival materials are specifically designed to protect your prints from chemical damage. They have a pH level of 7 or higher, meaning they are neutral or slightly alkaline. This is important because it prevents the breakdown of the paper over time. While regular paper may start to deteriorate in just a few decades, archival paper - often made from cotton fibers - can last for over a century.
The main culprit behind paper degradation is lignin, a chemical found in wood pulp. When present, lignin can create hydrochloric acid, which leads to yellowing and brittleness.
"Any framing you have around the artwork should be archival, meaning acid-free papers, mounts, and glues."
- Derek Smith, President of AXIS Fine Art Installation
When shopping for framing supplies, look for terms like Acid-Free, pH Neutral, Archival, Rag, Alpha-Cellulose, and Lignin-Free. These labels indicate that the materials are designed to protect your prints.
Mat boards, in particular, come in different quality levels, each offering varying degrees of protection:
| Board Type | Lifespan | Construction | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decorative | 5–25 years | Acidic cream core | Temporary displays |
| Conservation | 50–150 years | Alpha cellulose, lignin-free | Valuable artwork |
| Museum Grade | 100+ years | 100% cotton | Irreplaceable pieces |
You can often judge a mat board’s quality by looking at its core. Cream-colored cores are typically acidic and will discolor over time, while white or colored cores are treated to be acid-free. Cotton cores provide the highest level of protection for your artwork.
Once you’ve chosen the right mat board, it’s just as important to avoid using adhesives that could undo all these protective measures.
Avoid Regular Adhesives
The adhesives you use in framing are just as critical as the mat board and frame materials. Regular adhesives can cause serious damage to your prints. Over time, they become brittle, discolor, and leave behind residue that can permanently stain your artwork, reducing its visual appeal and value.
"One of the most damaging elements in picture framing is the use of acidic materials."
For instance, ordinary tape may seem like a quick solution, but it ages poorly. Its adhesive can turn yellow or brown, seep into the paper, and cause irreversible harm. Some non-archival adhesives even release fumes that discolor prints.
Instead, use archival-quality mounting tape or gummed linen tape designed for conservation framing. These adhesives are specially formulated to last for decades without breaking down, releasing harmful chemicals, or leaving residue. If you're framing something irreplaceable, make sure all adhesives are labeled as conservation-grade.
For the best results, consult a professional framer and explain your preservation needs. While archival materials may cost a bit more upfront, they’re worth it to protect your investment - whether it’s a beloved family photo or a beautiful print from OMG Kitty's collection.
2. Choose UV-Protective Glass or Acrylic
UV light can be a silent destroyer of your artwork, fading colors and weakening paper over time. Standard uncoated glass blocks only about 20–45% of UV rays, which isn’t enough to fully protect your prints. To safeguard them, opt for glazing that filters up to 99% of UV rays.
Both glass and acrylic offer UV-filtering options, so your choice will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Glass vs. Acrylic for UV Protection
When selecting between UV-protective glass and acrylic, it’s not just about UV protection. Each material has unique features that can influence your decision depending on your situation, the size of the frame, and the value of your artwork.
- Weight: Acrylic is significantly lighter than glass, making it ideal for larger frames. This lighter weight reduces stress on the frame and wall mounts.
- Safety: Acrylic is shatter-resistant, a safer choice for homes with kids or in high-traffic areas. Glass, on the other hand, can break into sharp shards if damaged.
- Clarity: Glass traditionally offers better clarity, but premium acrylic options now rival it in providing a clear view of your artwork.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two materials:
| Factor | Glass | Acrylic |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavy | Lightweight |
| Safety | Can shatter | Shatter-resistant |
| Clarity | Excellent | Good to excellent |
| Maintenance | Easy cleaning | Requires special cleaners |
| Scratch Resistance | High | Lower (improving with coatings) |
| Cost | Generally lower | Higher upfront cost |
| UV Protection | Up to 99% available | Up to 99% available |
Maintenance is a key difference. Glass can be cleaned with standard household cleaners, while acrylic needs special cleaning solutions to avoid scratches. Although acrylic is more prone to scratches, newer options include coatings that improve durability.
Cost is another factor. Glass is typically more affordable for basic UV protection, but acrylic’s durability and lighter weight can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run, especially when factoring in reduced shipping costs.
For artwork with significant monetary or sentimental value, consider upgrading to museum-grade glazing.
Museum-Grade Options
If you’re framing a valuable or sentimental piece, museum-grade glazing offers unmatched protection. These premium options combine near-perfect clarity with up to 99% UV protection.
Tru Vue provides some of the best museum-grade options. Their Museum Glass delivers nearly invisible clarity while blocking 99% of UV rays. If you need added durability, Optium Museum Acrylic offers the same UV protection with the added benefits of shatter and scratch resistance. For a more budget-friendly option, their UltraVue UV70 Glass blocks 70% of UV light.
Frame It Easy also offers cost-effective solutions, such as their Conservation Clear Acrylic, which provides 99% UV protection. In comparison, their standard clear and non-glare acrylics block only 66% of UV rays.
While museum-grade options come with a higher price tag, they’re worth the investment. For example, a 16×20-inch sheet of museum-grade acrylic with 99% UV protection costs about $122, compared to $15 for plain acrylic or $28 for non-glare acrylic. This upfront cost is minor when you consider the expense of replacing faded or damaged artwork.
Museum-grade glazing is especially important for prints with vibrant colors or materials that are prone to fading. Whether it’s a cherished family photo or a striking boho-style print from OMG Kitty, the added protection ensures your artwork stays beautiful for years to come.
Keep in mind that even the best UV-protective glazing works best when paired with smart display practices - avoid direct sunlight and areas with excessive heat or humidity.
3. Keep Art Away from Direct Sunlight and Heat
Even with top-notch UV-protective glazing, where you place your artwork matters. Direct sunlight and heat can lead to fading, warping, and other forms of material damage.
UV rays are particularly harsh on print pigments, gradually breaking them down and dulling their colors. Over time, this cumulative exposure leads to irreversible harm. Even the highest-quality prints aren’t immune to fading under prolonged UV exposure.
Heat is another culprit. It causes materials to expand and contract, which can result in warped artwork, cracked frames, or even separation from the mounting. As Marshall from The Marshall Gallery points out:
"The heat and light can have negative effects on the appearance of your artwork as time goes by because it ages over many years with exposure to both UV rays without protection or varnish that protects them from getting damaged in sunlight."
Best Display Conditions
To keep your artwork safe, creating the right environment is crucial. Aim for a stable temperature of around 70°F with humidity levels between 40–60%. Position your prints on walls that receive indirect light. North-facing walls are ideal since they avoid the harshness of direct sunlight. If you need to use other walls, think about the sun's path and try to avoid areas exposed to direct rays during peak daylight hours.
Lighting also plays a big role. Opt for LED lights, which emit little to no UV radiation and produce less heat compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Avoid fluorescent lighting near artwork, as it can emit UV rays that harm prints over time.
In rooms with lots of natural light, window treatments are a must. Blinds, curtains, or UV-blocking window film can filter sunlight, letting you enjoy natural light while keeping your art safe. For especially valuable pieces, consider rotating them periodically to reduce prolonged exposure to light.
Taking these precautions complements the protective framing techniques mentioned earlier.
Places to Avoid
Certain locations should always be off-limits for displaying artwork. Avoid hanging pieces in spots that receive extended direct sunlight, particularly near south- or west-facing windows, where the sun’s rays are strongest.
Heat sources are equally damaging. Keep your prints away from fireplaces, radiators, heating vents, and air conditioning units.
The damage caused by light and heat doesn’t just affect the appearance of your artwork - it can also reduce its emotional and financial value. Choosing the right place to display your prints is a small effort that ensures their beauty lasts for years to come.
sbb-itb-78c8b21
4. Use Proper Mounting Methods
Once you've chosen archival materials and UV-protective glazing, the next step is ensuring your print is mounted correctly. Proper mounting not only enhances the presentation but also safeguards your artwork from potential damage like warping, creasing, or contact with the glass. The main goal here is to keep your print separated from the glazing, reducing risks like condensation and scratches.
Float Mounting Benefits
Float mounting is a popular method that uses a backing board and a window mat to keep the print away from the glass. This technique not only protects your artwork but also gives it a polished, professional appearance. By maintaining a gap between the print and the glazing, you minimize the chances of condensation or surface scratches.
Using Spacers Safely
Spacers are another effective way to create a gap between the print and the glass. Opt for archival-quality spacers and steer clear of regular tape or non-archival adhesives, as these can cause long-term damage. Thin strips are placed along the edges of the frame to establish a uniform gap, preserving both the frame and the artwork. This method complements the use of archival materials and UV protection discussed earlier.
Handle Prints with Care
Proper handling is crucial to avoid damaging your prints during the mounting process. Always use clean hands or wear cotton gloves to prevent oils, dirt, or fingerprints from affecting the surface. When handling unframed prints, avoid touching the printed area entirely. Instead, hold the artwork by its edges and support it from underneath, using two hands whenever possible. For larger prints, lift them gently by holding diagonally opposite corners to prevent creasing.
As Salty Wings advises:
"Fine art prints are delicate so avoid touching the print surface with bare hands as the moisture and oils from your skin can affect print quality. To avoid damage hold prints by the edge or wear cotton gloves while holding them."
When removing prints, do so slowly and carefully to avoid creases, dents, or tears. If you're working with oversized prints, consider asking someone for assistance to ensure safe handling throughout the process.
Lastly, avoid rolling paper prints as this can lead to scratches or abrasions. Always keep prints flat during mounting to ensure they remain in pristine condition. Taking these precautions will help you mount your artwork securely and keep it looking its best for years to come.
5. Seal Frames to Block Dust and Moisture
Once you've mounted your artwork using archival techniques, the next step is sealing the frame. This adds an extra layer of protection, keeping out dust, moisture, pollutants, and even insects.
"A sealed frame system helps protect art from the potential damaging effects of environmental surroundings including changing humidity, atmospheric pollutants, dust, mold, and bugs."
Sealing creates a barrier that prevents contaminants from entering the frame. It works hand-in-hand with the stable environment you've already established using archival materials and UV-protective glazing.
How to Seal Frames Properly
Sealing your frame requires the right materials and careful application to ensure an airtight barrier. Here’s how to do it:
Start by addressing the frame's inner edge, also called the rabbet. Use Volara Foam Rabbet Tape - a closed-cell polyethylene foam with adhesive backing. This tape covers the raw wood, protecting your artwork from moisture and harmful gases that untreated wood can release over time.
Next, apply Lineco Self-Adhesive Frame Sealing Tape to the interior. This tape helps minimize off-gassing from wooden frames, creating a more stable environment for your artwork. University Products explains:
"For added protection, apply Lineco Self-Adhesive Frame Sealing Tape to minimize off-gassing from wooden frames and create a more stable environment for your artwork."
Finally, seal the back of the frame using Frame Backing Paper, secured with double-sided tape. This step ensures that dust, dirt, and insects cannot penetrate the frame. As University Products points out:
"This step prevents dust, dirt, and other pollutants, as well as insects, from being able to infiltrate the frame."
For environments with high humidity or other challenging conditions, consider adding Marvelseal 360. This heat-sealable barrier film is highly effective at blocking moisture, vapors, and atmospheric pollutants.
Always use pH-neutral adhesives and tapes to avoid long-term damage to your artwork. Household tapes or adhesives should be avoided, as they can degrade over time and harm your piece.
Once your frame is sealed, focus on selecting the right location for display to ensure lasting preservation.
Avoid Damp or High-Moisture Areas
Even a perfectly sealed frame needs a stable environment to protect your artwork. High-humidity areas or places with temperature fluctuations can still pose risks.
Bathrooms and kitchens are particularly problematic due to steam and frequent humidity changes. These conditions can overwhelm even the best-sealed frames, creating an environment for mold and mildew. As Chris Paschke advises:
"Moisture should always be kept away from art and framing."
Likewise, basements, laundry rooms, and areas near heating vents are not ideal. Basements tend to have fluctuating humidity levels, while laundry rooms produce steam and heat. Heating vents, on the other hand, cause temperature changes that can lead to warping or cracking.
For the best results, place your artwork on interior walls away from direct sunlight. Spaces like hallways, living rooms, or bedrooms typically offer consistent temperature and humidity levels, making them ideal for long-term display.
Conclusion: Making Your Art Prints Last for Years
Proper framing transforms art prints from temporary décor into cherished, long-lasting treasures. By focusing on key elements like archival materials, UV-protective glazing, controlled environmental conditions, correct mounting techniques, and sealed frames, you can create a protective shield that preserves the beauty and value of your artwork for decades.
Why does this matter? Quality framing not only enhances how your artwork looks but also safeguards its value. Unlike standard framing, which might use materials that contain acids or lack UV protection, conservation framing offers a higher level of protection. Victoria Jones, Owner of Frame of Mind, highlights its importance:
"Conservation framing is a game-changer for preserving the integrity and value of the artwork within."
These thoughtful measures help maintain your artwork's original colors and vibrancy, ensuring its visual appeal and long-term worth. It's important to note that any deviation from the original condition of the artwork can drastically reduce both its value and aesthetic charm.
For instance, using archival materials like acid-free matting and UV-protective glass or acrylic can shield your prints from harmful factors such as moisture, ultraviolet rays, and pests. This approach significantly extends the lifespan of your cherished pieces.
Imagine your boho-style prints adding warmth to your living room or vibrant designs brightening your home office. By combining archival materials, UV protection, precise mounting, and sealing techniques, these artworks can retain their impact for years. At OMG Kitty, you’ll find sustainably crafted art prints available in various sizes, both framed and unframed, to suit your preservation needs. With worldwide tracked shipping, you can protect and showcase stunning artwork no matter where you live.
Think of your art prints as treasures. With the right care, materials, and display conditions, they can continue to inspire and bring joy for generations to come.
FAQs
Why should you use archival materials when framing art prints?
When it comes to framing art prints, using archival materials plays a key role in preserving their condition and appearance over time. These specialized materials help protect against common problems like fading, yellowing, or damage caused by factors such as humidity and light exposure.
Opting for acid-free mats, UV-protective glass, and durable backing ensures your artwork stays vibrant and well-preserved for years. This is particularly crucial for pieces with sentimental or monetary value, as it helps shield them from gradual wear and tear.
What’s the best choice for protecting my artwork: UV-protective glass or acrylic?
When choosing between UV-protective glass and acrylic, it’s essential to think about what works best for your artwork and the space it will occupy. Acrylic stands out for being lightweight, shatter-resistant, and durable, which makes it a great choice for larger pieces or spaces where safety might be a concern. It also provides strong UV protection, helping to guard against fading and damage over time.
Glass, by contrast, excels in scratch resistance and offers a classic, crystal-clear look. However, it’s heavier and more fragile. Thanks to advancements in materials, modern UV acrylic now rivals glass in clarity and UV protection, offering a safer and more practical solution for long-term preservation.
What are the ideal conditions for displaying framed art prints to keep them in great shape over time?
To keep your framed art prints looking their best, place them in a space where the temperature stays between 60-70°F and the humidity hovers around 40-50%. Sudden changes in these conditions can lead to problems like warping or even mold growth.
Avoid hanging your artwork in spots exposed to direct sunlight, near heat sources like fireplaces or radiators, or in damp areas such as bathrooms or basements. These environments can cause fading, discoloration, or other types of damage over time. By sticking to these guidelines, you’ll help your art retain its vibrancy and charm for years to come.