Everyone thinks it’s all about the subject when looking at a picture but what is art without the frame?

Framing is a major part of presenting your works of art, memorabilia and family portraits to the world. The frame not only emphasises the subject matter, but it also protects it from the elements and those pesky insects making their home behind the mount board. When you’re ready to get your subject framed, you should think about the following before going to the framers.

1. Where is it being hung?
2. What’s the current decor and are you looking to change it soon?
3. Is it in direct sunlight?
4. Is it near a radiator?

Once you’re armed with this information the framer will know the best solutions for your bespoke environment… But did you know about the different levels of protection glass can provide?   Although virtually invisible, glass is a vital part of the frame, it creates additional rigidity, blocks harmful UV rays and can enhance the clarity of the subject. There’re a few different types of glass to choose from that offer varying levels of protection from scratches, UV light and reflections.

Float glass

Invented by Sir Alistair Pilkington back in In 1952 in St Helens, this is the go-to glass for most framers all over the world. Float glass is perfect for most homes and office spaces as it’s easy to clean and use. It’s made from molten glass which comes from a bed of molten metal which gives the glass its uniformed thickness and clarity.

Safety Glass

Another favourite when protecting art is safety glass. This toughened glass is typically used in public spaces, including bars, restaurants, hotels, galleries, sporting environments or if you have children like mine… in the house. The glass protects the image and also has an attentional safety feature that makes it less likely to pose a threat when broken.

Art Glass

Other than water, UV rays are the worst natural element that will damage artwork. Whether it’s a print from Athena (you might be too young to remember this shop) or an original from Banksy, any light will start to damage your treasured masterpiece. To reduce the damage there are a few things you can do.

1. Put the subject in a water/airtight box and lock it in a room with blackout blinds.
2. Hang the subject in the shadows
3. Use a glass that virtually reflects all harmful UV Rays away from the subject.

There is a wide range of glass that has the properties identified in point 3. They have been created for different needs and wallet sizes. All Artglass reduces unwanted residual reflections by 98% to provide undistorted colours of the subject. Its patented coating offers a scratch-resistant solution and depending on what range you choose; your subject can be 100% protected against the UV rays.

Acrylic Glass

This is a great alternative to framing with glass. It has excellent optical clarity and is half the weight of standard glazing.  As it’s shatterproof, it’s perfect for public areas, sports environments and use in Dementia friendly locations including Care Homes. It comes in various thicknesses to offer greater protection and rigidity across larger frames but as with most plastics, if it is not toughened it is prone to scratch quite easily.

Non-glare glass

Another glass most people find effective in the fight against sunlight is non-glare glass. The manufacturing process uses acid to etch one or both surfaces of the glass to provided uniformed diffused surfaces. This disperses reflected light, allowing the audience to enjoy the image in true clarity.   For more information on glass and to find out how to further protect your subjects call Mount today or email us with your questions.