FAQs
What can PFS frame for me?
At Preservation & Framing Services we can frame: Certificates, Photographs, Prints, Posters, Clothing, Sports Jerseys, Oil Paintings, Watercolors, Acrylics, Tapestry, Cross Stitch, Needlework, Medals, Stamps, Coins, Fans, Baby Items, Dried Flowers, Wedding dresses, all types of Memorabilia.
What is Conservation Framing?
Conservation framing is a technique that employs the use of the specific methods and high-quality materials to protect and maintain art or a framed object. Using conservation framing techniques will greatly extend the life and condition of your piece of art.
When is conservation framing the right choice?
Conservation framing is the right choice when you have a piece that has sentimental value to you or can be saved as a future investment. We recommend conservation or museum glass for all art works.
What is conservation glass?
Conservation glass is a special type of glass invented in 1990 that is used in framing to protect your art from damaging UV rays. At PFS, we use Tru Vue Conservation Clear® Glass. Care should still be given to avoid exposure to direct sunlight, fluorescent light, high heat, or humidity. Even though standard glass cleaner can be used on any Tru Vue glass product, we always recommend using an ammonia-free cleaner.
How do you know when it’s time to change the mat inside of a frame?
When the bevel of the mat changes to yellow or brown, it shows that the mat is not pure and has acid in it. Your best bet is the change to the mat to an acid-free quality mat. We can help!
How do you prevent mold from growing inside a framed piece?
To prevent mold from growing on your art, the piece should be spaced from the glass. This allows for airflow which prevents condensation and allows the atmosphere inside the frame to self-adjust to changing humidity levels.
Spacing is achieved by the use of a mat or spacer between the glazing and the artwork. Sudden changes of temperature and humidity should be avoided as heavy condensation may wet and damage the artwork.
How do you prevent mold from growing inside a framed piece?
To prevent mold from growing on your art, the piece should be spaced from the glass. This allows for airflow which prevents condensation and allows the atmosphere inside the frame to self-adjust to changing humidity levels.
Spacing is achieved by the use of a mat or spacer between the glazing and the artwork. Sudden changes of temperature and humidity should be avoided as heavy condensation may wet and damage the artwork.
What is art preservation?
Art preservation prevents damage to original artwork on paper from aging and contamination. We recommend using our art preservation services when you first acquire a new piece of art.
What is art restoration?
Art Restoration involves the cleaning, repairing, or reconstruction of art work. We recommend using our art restoration services when you acquire a new piece of old art, or your piece of art is damaged. Using special techniques, we can bring your piece back to life, preserving your memory or investment.
Do you restore photographs, too?
Yes, we do offer photo restoration!
Is there mold on my artwork?
Mold is often seen as a ghostly image on the glazing materials or dark powder on the mat. High temperatures and humidity levels can accelerate the growth of mold inside the frame.
What is “Foxing” on artwork?
“Foxing” is when red or brown spots appear on the surface of your art piece. While the exact cause of foxing is not totally understood, it appears to accelerate under high temperature and humidity conditions.
What is the difference between UV Glass and Museum Glass?
Both UV glass and museum glass are excellent choices for your framing project. Both provide 99% UV protection, but musuem glass provides exceptional clarity.
What is the difference between “rag mat” and “acid-free” matting?
Choosing the right type of mat for your framed art piece is important. Decorative acid-free mat are treated to be acid-free but will eventually break down within 25 years. “Rag” mat (or museum-grade mat) is a better choice for pieces where you want the life expectancy to be 50-150+ years. If your piece of artwork is valuable, choose a rag mat! For everyday framing, acid-free matting is a perfect choice.
How do you frame clothing?
At PFS, we hand sew all framed clothing/jerseys/wedding dresses that we frame. This means we do not use glue when enforcing clothing on the mat board to allow the process to be reversed if desired. This also ensures no damage occurrs to the clothing during the framing process.
Do you use wood or polystyrene frames?
We only use wood frames! Polystyrene is a plastic-based frame product that is cheaper in price as well as quality. It will not last as long and many people have had issues with these frames breaking over time. We don’t carry these in our store since it doesn’t fit our preservation standards. Wood is a better choice.