As an artist, your work is your legacy. The prints you create now will be around long after you’re gone, and you want to ensure they’re correctly taken care of.
It is essential to preserve printed materials in their current form. To achieve this, print preservation must be practiced routinely.
What is preservation print framing?
Preservation print framing is a type of framing that is designed to protect your prints from damage. The frame will typically have a UV-resistant glass or acrylic front, and the print will be mounted using archival-quality materials.
This type of framing is ideal for prints that are rare or valuable or for prints you plan to display for an extended period. Following these tips, you can be sure that your prints will be properly preserved and will continue to hold value for years to come.
Archival materials
The quality of preservation framing materials is essential for prints’ lasting protection and enjoyment. Key elements for these materials include an acid-free mat board, archival tape, an acid-free backing board, and a well-designed frame that enhances the art piece.
An expert framer should be consulted to provide these components and correctly assemble them.
Non-acid-free material will cause significant damage to printed materials over time. The materials will become yellow, brittle, and deteriorate much more quickly than if they had been displayed with acid-free materials.
The acidity in non-acid-free materials will also cause the ink to fade, bleed, or transfer, making it difficult to read or view the printed materials.
This deterioration can happen relatively quickly, especially when exposed to high temperatures, humidity, and light. Thus, it is essential to use acid-free or archival material to ensure your valued artwork is preserved for years!
Best glass for valuable prints
The most commonly used glass for preserving prints is museum-grade UV-protective glass. This type of glass filters out harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause fading or discoloration of prints over time.
It also has a non-reflective surface, which reduces glare and improves the visibility of the artwork.
Another popular option is acrylic glazing, which is lightweight, shatter-resistant, and also available with UV protection.
Choosing between glass or acrylic and the specific brand or product will ultimately depend on individual needs and preferences.
Sealing the print in its ecosystem
A dust cover is important in sealing and protecting a framed print. It is placed over the rear of a framed print to help prevent dust, dirt, and other materials that could damage the print.
A dust cover can also help to keep the print from fading or discoloring over time. The cover should have a strong adhesive that will stick to the frame and not fall off over time.
A framed print that is not properly sealed can be vulnerable to damage from insects such as silverfish, carpet beetles, and booklice that feed on paper.
Unsealed frames can also lead to fading and discoloration of artwork due to the presence of certain gases, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, that can trap moisture in paper.
To ensure the integrity of your printed artwork, sealing your frame is essential for durability and longevity.
Your preserved frame print is now ready to be hung on a wall or displayed. Keep it away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme heat for optimal preservation.
Wrapping things up
In conclusion, proper framing is essential for print preservation. To ensure your prints last a lifetime, use archival-quality materials and ensure the glass is UV-resistant.
Follow these guidelines, and your prints will be sure to stand the test of time. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more tips on prints.
