Proper conservation picture framing can prevent colors from fading, colors changing, and materials (papers, fabrics or whatever is being framed) from becoming brittle and fragile.

The picture framing technology that has developed in the last five years has boggled the minds of not only the general public but many picture framers. The materials and products have revolutionized conservation and protection of artworks and keep sakes. Conservation and archival are two words that are often misunderstood.

Conservation refers to the protection and preservation of the artwork. This can involve many approaches to create barriers, protecting the artwork from hostile attacks from sneaky invisible enemies of important things.

Archival means that the materials will not disintegrate under their own power or properties. For example, the newsprint paper that this article was originally printed on is made of wood pulp and contains a high percentage of acid (or high ph level). With a little time this paper will discolor and become brittle. This action will be accelerated if exposed to sources of ultraviolet (UV) light like, sunshine or florescent lights. The UV light creates a chemical reaction with the high ph content. Other materials with high ph levels are card board, masking tape, most cellophane tape, and many papers that have not been ph neutralized. These typical household materials can harm wonderful things in a reactively short period of time. Unfortunately by the time you notice the damage, it is too late. Brown “scorch” marks burned into the back of the art, which will eventually appear on the face side of the art, is a common problem when cardboard is used as the backing of artwork. The acid bleeds from one surface to another. Special acid free backings, mats and mounting materials are available to prevent such damages. When combined with UV filtering glass, optimized protection is achieved.