Archival framing is to the combination of material and practices used to mount and frame an artwork. The main components of Archival framing are the frame, the mounting board and the glass
Our Frames
We deliver from simple wood frames with natural, stained or painted finishes to the more complex water gilded or gesso applications. Our frames are available in a variety of woods (maple, oak, walnut, ash, cherry, mahogany to name a few) and may be produced in various dimensions and fininshes. Harlem Frames is committed to continue this finished corner frame tradition, the best in quality and craftsmanship.
The Mounting board
The mounting board is a combination of single materials which form together the support for the artwork. It may be composed of:
Strainer: a wooden frame that goes in the back of the frame. It is most commonly used with cap frames, shadow boxes, mirrors and oversize jobs. It ensures the longevity of the mounting board and ultimately the artwork itself. It also prevents the backing board from bending and reinforces the frame’s joinery.
Backing board: Common materials are acid free foamboard, coroplast (corrugated plastic)
Mat board: This is the substrate commonly used to affix an artwork. 100% acid free rag mat to float artwork or with a cut in window. Other substrates include linen mat, sintra, dibond, wood and acrylic.
Glass
We provide the best quality materials available in the market. All of our glazing options are framing grade. Common glazing materials are acrylic and glass. UV Protective glass is available in both options, including: Optium Museum Acrylic®, Museum Glass®, Conservation Clear®, OP3 Acrylic, Conservation Reflection Control®, Non-Glare PP3 OP3 99% and more
Profiles
There is virtually no end to the variations of overall size and rabbet configuration that we can produce to meet your requirements or those of your artwork. If you don’t know the exact profile you need for your display needs, give us a call and we will guide through the process and help you pick the appropriate framing materials for your item.
Finishes
A Finished-corner frame is the ultimate framing option. It is adaptable to any project of any color pallet, and it welcomes a variety of options in terms of wood species, colors, finishes and textures. Our handcrafted picture frames are built with carefully selected raw materials and adapted for archival framing.