. Hand Colored Gallery
. About Hand Colored Prints
Preservation Framing
. FAQs
Conservation or preservation framing is a method of picture framing that protects and preserves artwork. If artwork is not properly framed in a preservation manner, it can quickly succumb to the damaging effects of light, humidity, acid in the framing materials, dust or insects. Professional picture framers are trained in the proper techniques and materials for preservation framing, ensuring the protection and beauty of your artwork for many generations.


Mat boards: Acid-free, 100% cotton rag mat boards protect artwork from pollutant gases entering along the glazing edge, from acids released by wood mouldings, and provide air space between the art and the glazing to minimize damage from humidity. Where no mat is desired, we will attach a frame spacer to the inside of the glazing to ensure the proper air space between the glazing and the artwork.

Mounting boards and materials: Archival-quality mounting boards protect artwork from pollutants entering the back of the framed piece and from foam out-gassing. Archival-quality hinges are used instead of dry mounting to attach the artwork to the mounting board, securing the artwork while enabling it to breathe.

UV Glass and Acrylic: Ultraviolet light can fade, deteriorate or yellow artwork. UV glass and acrylic filters 97% of the harmful light (as compared to about 47% with regular glass).



Cropping
If you choose to crop your print, we may need to trim the paper edge depending on its width compared to the width of the matting. When trimming or cropping, we will not cut or cover any artist signature or notations on the print.

Drymounting
We will not drymount a hand colored print. As with any original work on paper, our hand colored prints are hinged with archival-quality tape to an acid-free backing.

Finishing
All conservation-framed artwork using wood mouldings will have a sealed paper backing to minimize pollutants from entering the back of the frame. Artwork framed with metal mouldings will be sealed with archival tape around the glazing and the backing. Archival framing certificates will be affixed to the back of the frame.


Hang framed pictures on your wall. Not only can you enjoy your artwork, but also framed works do much better on the wall than in storage. Move artwork around occasionally to change the amount and direction of light exposure.

Use proper hanging hardware. Use the appropriately sized hanging hardware included with each framed print. If you are hanging a heavy piece, make sure the hanging hardware is mounted to a wall stud.

Keep your artwork out of sunlight. Even with conservation glass or acrylic glazing, it is a good idea to avoid hanging works in direct sunlight whenever possible.

Store your artwork carefully. Whenever possible, store artwork in a climate-controlled space similar to your living space. Where you are comfortable, it will be comfortable. Do not store artwork in an attic, a garage or a basement where temperature extremes and humidity will be damaging. If you notice signs of moisture within the frame, carefully remove the framing package -- mounting board, artwork and any mat boards -- from the frame to allow them to dry properly. If the moisture is extensive or there are signs of mildew, take the artwork to a trained framing professional.

If you have any questions about framing your print, please contact our Customer Support Center by email at support@art.com or call us at 1-800-952-5592, between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. ET Monday - Friday, or 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. ET Saturday.