My most recent collection, “From the Sketchbook,” included six framed original sketches of horses using custom, handmade marbled paper matboard and antique or vintage frames I sourced from antique and thrift shops. I was overjoyed by the overwhelmingly positive response to the art and equally happy to receive an influx of inquiries about the frames I used and how I repurposed them for these pieces.
I know many of you like the vintage or antique aesthetic and have your own art you’d like to display in a beautiful, repurposed frame. I thought it’d be helpful to have a step-by-step guide to archival framing that you can refer to as you do it yourself.
I’ve learned that framing is itself an art. For me, the most exciting part of framing a new piece of art is sourcing the frame, but that’s only part of the process. There are several behind-the-scenes steps required for high-quality framing that will last.
Keep reading for an explanation of archival framing and the simple steps to try it at home.
What is archival framing?
The method of preserving a work’s value is referred to as archival framing, also known as preservation framing or conservation framing. Archival framing is all about preserving the quality of the artwork. Archival, conservation-grade materials are pH-neutral and free of chemicals that negatively affect paper.
Artwork framed with non-archival methods will yellow or darken significantly over time. In some cases, the paper will even begin to crumble.
I used museum-grade archival framing for the “From the Sketchbook” originals. I use the same techniques for any artwork that I frame or re-frame and sell in my curated vintage and antique collections. Each framing element is archival, from the museum-grade mat and backing board to the traditional mulberry paper mounting hinges and the dust cover on the back of the frame.
When is archival framing necessary?
Though it may seem like only famous artwork hanging in museums needs proper conservation framing, it’s a more common practice than you may think.
Archival framing is needed for all original art, whether old or new. It’s even necessary for prints that are either antique or vintage or contemporary high-end giclée prints. Giclée printing is archival, and is often printed on archival paper, so we should always make the effort to also frame archivally to support that high-quality print as best we can.
9 steps to preserve artwork using archival framing materials and techniques:
1. Source the frame
I find frames at antique markets and thrift stores. Look for solid frames that are still in overall good condition with the original glass intact. You’ll want wood frames free of cracks or metal frames without rust or corrosion. Make sure the glass is free from scratches or chips. It’s also helpful to check the joints — dovetail joints or mortise and tenon joints are the most durable.
2. Disassemble the frame
Archival framing will require you to fully disassemble the frame you sourced. For this, you might need a screwdriver, pliers, and/or a putty knife. Use your tools to gently take apart the frame, removing hanging wire, the old dust cover, framing darts, and existing artwork. Finish with a good cleaning of the glass and the frame.
3. Create your new matboard
You will need to create or order a custom-sized matboard, which is the thick cardboard that’s placed between the glass and the artwork to prevent damage to the art. To properly size your matboard, you’ll need to first determine the interior and exterior dimensions. Measure the artwork you would like to frame to get your inside dimension and the glass or the frame's existing mat or backing board and to get the outside matboard dimension. I order pre-cut museum-grade mat board from Frame Destination. You can choose your matboard type, color, exact dimensions, etc. right on their website. I recommend the Crescent RagMat Museum 4Ply.
4. Cut out your backing/mounting board
Similar to the matboard, you will need a custom-sized mounting or backing board to provide a sturdy foundation for the artwork and matboard. Cut your board to the same dimensions as your matboard’s outside dimensions. I order large sheets of Crescent AFX Double Thick Mounting Board and cut them down to size as needed.
5. Mount the artwork
Once you have the backing board ready, you can attach the artwork to it and hinge the matboard to the backing board. This process, called mounting, requires a few tools. I use Lineco's archival Museum Mounting Kit, which includes all of the supplies and instructions you will need.
6. Thoroughly clean the frame & glass one more time
Opt for a gentle cleanser, like a mild dish soap, and a soft cloth to clean the frame. This is particularly important with older antique frames. I use Method’s glass cleaner to give the glass a good, streak-free clean.
7. Put the art into the frame
Finally, the two pieces of the project come together. Place your matted, mounted artwork into the frame and secure it in place with framing darts or a framing point driver. I use the Logan F500-2 Dual Drive Elite Point Driver.
8. Attach a dust cover
Once the artwork is secured inside the frame, you can seal the entire back of the frame with a protective dust cover. These are most commonly made from kraft paper — I use this one from Frame Destination. There are several options for adhesives, but I like to use double-sided Scotch adhesive transfer tape.
9. Attach the hanging wire
The last step is attaching a new hanging wire to the dust cover. There are a couple of different ways to attach the wire, but I use metal eye-hooks. These can be purchased in several sizes, depending on the weight of the art; the heavier the frame, the thicker the hook and wire need to be. You can buy a hanging wire kit or purchase hanging wire and eye-hooks separately.
If you follow these steps, you’ll have a framed piece of art that will look perfect for years to come. Enjoy framing your own art, or check out my equestrian originals and fine art giclée prints, any of which would look great in an antique or vintage frame. As always, feel free to email me with any questions about framing or choosing the right artwork.