When it’s done right, custom framing is incredibly rewarding. It’s an art form in itself, built around your unique artwork, interior, or even your one-of-a-kind personality. Many who already know this satisfying process, keep going back to their framer and promoting the craft to the world. In this article, we will provide you with several ideas to help you choose the best glass product for your custom framing job.

WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW BEFORE CHOOSING GLASS FOR YOUR FRAME?

While most of the choices will affect the appearance of the frame, there are some that create more subtle differences. Those will make an impact later – either in your home environment or after some time. Knowing the answers to these questions will help you make the best choices for the presentation and preservation of your art pieces. When choosing glass for your frame, remember that your framer can only know what you tell them. So don’t spare the detail – it will only help.

– HOW LONG DO YOU WANT YOUR FRAMED ART TO LAST?

As framing can be both decorative and preservative, the first and probably the most important question to ask yourself is, “How long do I want it to last?”. For decorative framing of reproductions, maximum UV protection might not be the priority. However, if your piece is limited edition or original, you should let your framer know that you’re looking for conservation-level materials for your frame. The choices that your framer makes will play a role in forming the appropriate environment inside the frame which will protect the artwork from heat, humidity, and light.

To ensure that your artwork is protected, you will need to use glass for your frame. Regular glass, however, blocks only about 20-40% of UV light. This is not enough to protect your art from fading. UV-filtering glass is specially designed for picture framing – ensuring that your artwork is properly protected. Remember that light damage is cumulative and can slowly damage the materials of the artwork. You won’t even notice it until you open the frame years later. To avoid any unwanted damage, discuss your options with your framer and learn more about Artglass UV-protective glass here.

– WHERE WILL THE FRAME BE DISPLAYED?

Your framer only knows what’s in front of them. Providing information about the display conditions can be very helpful to choose the best complementary design. Is the artwork an important centerpiece? Is it intended to evoke emotions? Really considering the value of the framed piece as a part the design and aesthetic of the interior will help you choose the best product for your custom frame.

– LIGHT CONDITIONS AND GLAZING

Hanging your frames in direct sunlight is never advised. However, the surrounding light also can influence the frame and its appearance. When displaying artworks in light environments, make sure to choose anti-reflective glass. It will significantly improve the visibility of your artwork. Read more about Artglass anti-reflective glass here.

– TRAFFIC

Framed art can enhance many professional spaces and interior designs. However, when there’s a risk of especially high traffic, shatter-resistant glass can provide additional physical protection against glass damage. Consider shatter-resistant glass, also, if you have extremely energetic pets or children. Always consult with your framer about the appropriate hanging methods for your finished frames.

– IS YOUR FRAMED ARTWORK GOING TO TRAVEL?

While you don’t need physical protection for transporting the frame once or twice, regular shipping of artworks glazed with glass puts artworks at risk of breakage. To protect your art at all times, choose Artglass Lifetime Acrylic – the ultimate combination of UV protection, premium clarity, and shatter resistance.

HELP YOUR FRAMER TO HELP YOU

Remember that your framer is there to guide you through your choices. If you’re truly looking for the longest protection, there are materials that will provide the best environment for your framed art. Consider those in your design conversation! If you’re looking to conserve your artwork using proper conservation-grade methods, there are preservation framers out there who are true masters of this meticulous craft. Choosing glass for custom framing might seem like the least important thing, but it isn’t. Glass can help you protect and display your artwork in the best way possible. And by answering the right questions, you can ensure a design of a frame that will far surpass what’s available in a department store.