Various Options for Space in a Shadow Box

Spacer Mats Objects such as seashells, arrowheads, thimbles, military medals, and other small items can be framed using a window mat. To achieve this, the items are arranged in a specific way and then measured. The mat is then designed in a usual manner to fit the grouping. After the mat is cut and the…

Fitting and Finishing the Frame

The process of finishing the framing (installing all of the materials in the frame, sealing it up, and adding hanging hardware) is called fitting. There are several techniques, depending on the type of framing and the preference of the framer. The first step in fitting is gathering all of the materials that will go into…

Basic Fitting Procedure for Metal Frames

The following instructions will be applicable to most sectional metal frames. Although there are some variations, most of them will have the same process. Some metal frames have two channels for two sets of hardware, one at the front of the frame and the other at the back, for added strength. In a few cases,…

Most Common Frame Joining Techniques

Building frames is called ‘joining’ in the picture framing industry. There are several methods for joining frames, depending on the frame material and the equipment available. Most frames require four straight pieces of moulding cut with a 45-degree miter at each end. Each piece of cut moulding is called a rail. Assembling Sectional Frames Sectional…

Glazing – Glass and Acrylic for Picture Framing

The transparent sheet of glass or plastic (acrylic) that is placed in the face of a picture frame is called glazing. Glazing provides a protective cover for the artwork in a frame, protecting the art from airborne dust, grease, household cleaning chemicals and fingerprints. A few kinds of art can be framed without glazing such…

Archival or Conservation Framing and Enemies of Framed Art

The terms “archival,” “preservation,” and “conservation” are used interchangeably in picture framing to refer to framing that gives artwork the highest level of protection possible. In professional framing, this type of framing is recommended for all valued artwork, whether the value is monetary, historical, or emotional. Criteria for Conservation Framing All of the materials used…