Importance of Acid Free Framing

Preserving Your Precious Memories: The Importance of Acid-Free Framing

In the world of art, photography, and cherished memorabilia, there's a common concern which impacts collectors, enthusiasts and gift givers alike - the impact of deterioration over time. We all want our valuable framed possessions to stand the test of time, whilst maintaining their original beauty and value.

This is why it is important to consider the materials used to frame your treasured items, whether it be photographs, art, prints or other memorabilia.

In this blog, we'll delve into the world of acid-free framing, explaining what it is, why it matters, and how it can safeguard your most treasured memories.

Acid-Free Custom Framing: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?

Acid-free custom framing refers to the use of materials that are free from acidic compounds that can cause damage to your artwork, photographs, and memorabilia. These materials are carefully designed to have a neutral pH level, ensuring that they won't harm your precious items over time.

Acid-free materials should be a key consideration, especially when it comes to preserving your valuable pieces. Whether you're an art collector, a passionate photographer, or someone with sentimental memorabilia, you've likely invested time, money, and emotion into your collection. Acid-free framing is a way to honour that investment and protect your memories for generations to come.

If you're framing something as a gift, using acid-free materials guarantees that the recipient can cherish their framed item for many years to come.

The Impact of Acidic Framing Materials on Artwork and Photographs

To understand why acid-free framing matters, let's take a closer look at what acid can do to your cherished items. Over time, acidic framing materials can lead to a range of issues, including:

• Discolouration: Acid can cause fading and discolouration in your artwork or photographs, stripping them of their original vibrancy and beauty.
• Yellowing: Acidic mat boards and backing boards can lead to the yellowing of paper-based items. Gradually, the paper can transform from white to yellow, causing permanent damage and diminishing the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.
• Deterioration: Acid can weaken the fibers of paper-based materials, making them brittle and fragile. This can result in tears, creases, and even irreversible damage to your artwork or memorabilia.
• Staining: Acidic materials can cause unsightly stains and spots to develop on your items, diminishing their visual appeal and reducing their value.

Framing materials that can potentially be acidic include:

• Regular Cardboard or Paper Mat Boards: Non-acid-free cardboard or paper mat boards can contain acidic compounds that may harm your framed items over time.
• Non-Archival Glues and Tapes: Standard glues and tapes often have acidic properties that can deteriorate the materials they come in contact with, such as photographs and artwork.
• Regular Foam Core Backing: Foam core backing made with non-acid-free materials can release acidic agents, which can affect the items framed against it.
• Cheap or Low-Quality Frames: Some inexpensive ready-made frames may be made with materials that are not acid-free, including the backing and the frame itself.

By choosing professional custom framers, such as Portfolio Picture Framers you get the peace of mind that your pieces are being framed with acid-free materials which won't cause them damage later down the track.

Benefits of Acid-Free Framing

Now that we've discussed the potential negative impact of acid on your cherished possessions, let's delve into the numerous advantages of opting for acid-free framing materials:

• Longevity: Acid-free framing materials are designed to resist deterioration over time. By choosing these materials, you're significantly extending the lifespan of your artwork, photographs, and memorabilia.
• Preservation: Acid-free framing helps preserve the original colours and quality of your items. Say goodbye to faded photographs and yellowed documents; acid-free framing keeps them looking as good as new.
• Protection: Acid-free framing materials create a barrier between your treasures and the harmful external environment. They shield your items from pollutants, humidity, and UV rays, ensuring they remain in pristine condition.

Acid-Free Materials Available at Portfolio Picture Framers

At Portfolio Picture Framers, we only use high quality acid-free framing materials. This ensures that your framed memories are resistant to deterioration and stand the test of time. Our custom framing services use the following materials:

• Acid-Free Mat Boards: Mat boards are used to create a border around your artwork or photograph within the frame. Acid-free mat boards ensure that there's no direct contact between your item and the frame's glass, preventing potential damage.
• Acid-Free Backing Boards: These boards provide support and protection to the back of your framed item. Acid-free backing boards maintain a neutral pH level, safeguarding your piece from acid-induced harm.

Our Commitment to Acid-Free Framing Materials

At Portfolio Picture Framers, we're committed to the art of preservation. We understand the unique needs of art collectors, photographers, and individuals with memorabilia, and we're here to ensure your pieces receive the care and attention they deserve.

We make sure to use only acid-free materials in our custom photo frames. That means acid-free mat boards and foam core backings.

And if you're looking for the best quality, we've got you covered with our museum-grade matboards. They're perfect for giving your most valuable items the treatment they deserve!

A Personalised Approach to Custom Framing

We take a personalised approach to our framing services. We take the time to understand the story behind each piece you want framed, helping you choose the perfect matboard and frame to enhance its beauty and longevity. With our meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, your items are in safe hands.

Contact Portfolio Picture Framers today, and let us help you safeguard your treasures for generations to come. Together, we'll ensure that your memories are not just preserved but cherished for a lifetime.