• Framing: Frequently Asked Questions

    What role does conservation play in framing?

    Picture frames generally serve two main purposes: they protect and visually show off the artwork. As the word suggests, 'conservation' grade framing refers to the materials and processes used to preserve the work for years to come. After all, there's no point in making a lovely frame if the artwork is going to fade over time. 


    What makes a frame conservation standard? 
    To be classed as conservation standard framing, all materials used must meet certain criteria and all processes undertaken must be fully reversible, leaving the artwork in its original condition. 

    What materials do you use? 
    Our frames are commonly made from obeche, tulip, ash or oak wood, which are hand-finished with our own stains, paints and waxes. All of our mount boards are atleast conservation grade, if not museum grade. We also offer different glazing options from standard float glass to museum grade glass and even UV protective acrylic when required. 

    What's the key to framing a picture well? 
    We treat each artwork on a case by case basis: what might work well for one image may ruin another. For example, where we would use use screws to hold a stretched canvas in a tray frame, we would never apply the same logic to a work of paper. Our frames are tailored to show off your artwork in the best possible way. 

    What makes Hidden Framing unique?

    We frame all of the rare works sold across Hidden Gallery. Our extensive knowledge in conservation and museum-grade framing, inaddition to our individual background in the arts, allows us to provide a fully bespoke framing service to individuals, businesses, artists and galleries. 

    Regardless if it's a Picasso or your daughter's drawing, we treat each artwork with the care and attention it deserves. 

     

    How would you suggest treating a framed artwork once it's left the workshop? 

    We always recommend that the work be hung away from bright and direct sunlight. Although UV glass blocks 99.6% of harmful UV rays, the 0.4% can still have an effect. Bear in mind even household lightbulbs emit small amounts of UV light.

    It is also important to keep the work stable in terms of heat and humidity. Never hang work above radiators or fireplaces, and be mindful of hanging on external walls as damp can collect in cold spots. 


    Do you just frame works on paper and paintings? 
    Although we specialise in framing these items, we have framed an array of ceramics, artefacts and tapestries, such as Grayson Perry's Gay Black Cats. If you have something a little different that you would like to frame, speak to one of our framers to discuss your options. 

    What is the most unusual thing you've framed? 

    We once framed a goat's head! Other highlights include a three-metre long Chinese scroll, fragments of dried petals from a wedding bouquet, a piece of the Berlin Wall and a knife signed by Steve-O from Jackass (which he had used to cut a lemon and squeeze the juice in his eyes). 


  • Do you have something to frame? Speak to one of our friendly framers to discuss your options today. 
     
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