Framing using mount board

Framing using mount board. Both conservators and hobbyists alike are concerned with the preservation of photos. It can be impossible to replace photographs, so it makes sense to take time and effort at the outset to preserve your photographs to the highest standards, in order to increase the longevity of their undiminished beauty. Atmospheric conditions, pollution, dirt and dust, light and acid-containing photo framing supplies can all work together to destroy your photographs. However, there are steps you can take to ensure your prized photos are protected.

Temperature changes can cause adverse effects on your framed photograph. These changes can cause the artwork within the frame to expand and contract, which over time can cause the photograph to buckle and can damage the print. One way of mounting your photographs to help avoid this issue is to use photo corners. The edges of the art is placed inside these corners, and then the picture is matted and framed. Because the corners are not permanently attached to the mount board, it allows for a bit of movement and they will help protect your photograph from this damage.

Humidity can combine with contaminants such as pollution and dirt to create acids that can cause discoloration to photographs, as well as damage to wood photo frames. This effect is heightened if the glass used in the frame is in direct contact with the artwork. To prevent humidity damage, one technique is to frame your photographs with mat board. The mat board helps to provide air space between the glass and the photo, so that water will have a lessened opportunity to accumulate on the glass.

Light can wreak havoc on framed photographs because it can cause photo fading. Low level lighting is the best for the preservation of photos, but if that is not possible another option is to use metal frames with glass created to filter out the harmful light rays or plexiglass.

There are excellent photo framing supplies that are acid free, and ideal to use with your choice of mount board and mat board when framing a print. Both the mat board and mount board should be made of acid-free materials, and the photograph should be attached to the mount board using acid-free products, such as acid-free hinging tape, or archival quality photo corners.

The preservation of photos requires attention to temperature, humidity, light and archival quality photo framing supplies in order to give your cherished photographs the best opportunity to look great both now and in the future.

Susan Slobac is an avid photographer. Susan believes a picture frame is more than just fashion; it's a safeguard for something you love.