Examples of bad practice by bad framers
Brown Bevels
In this photo the framer has chosen a cheap mounting board to frame a limited edition print. As a result, the beveled edge has turned a yellowish brown. This is caused by acids in the mount, which will damage the print underneath. If you value your print AVOID this framer framer or ask him or her if they can use a better quality mount board. Also, if you have pictures at home in this condition, why not get them reframed? This can really give a picture a new lease of life, not to mention the room it’s hanging in.
Over Cuts
Can you see right in the corner of the bottom mount the mount cutting knife has overcut the bevel on the mount? This causes no damage and most people don't notice it, but if you spot it in your framer's workshop ask them to make sure it doesn't happen on your picture. Now I’ve told you about this, I promise you will often see overcuts on lots of pictures you see!
Swerves
A definite curve in the mount, probably caused by using a blade to blunt for the job. It's unsightly and inexpert - say NO to it.
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Split Ends
This is a real no-no. No matter what system the framer uses to join the four pieces of wood together the mitred edges should be nearly invisible at the corners where they meet. For a piece specially framed for you it should all be cut from one length of wood which makes for a better fit at the corners and a continuous grain and pattern all round the frame.
Turn Over and Watch Your Back
The back is nearly as important as the front, if you want your picture to last more than just a few years. Make sure the back is sealed properly. Masking tape, plastic tape should NOT be used. Most framers use brown paper sticky tape and MDF or Hardboard. This is not ideal in my view but is widely accepted. Some framers now use a product which looks a bit like corrugated cardboard - if you spot this, check that it isn't. By the way, some framers will use aluminium foil between the backing board and your picture. I think this is a good idea for some artworks.
Wire or ordinary string should be changed to non-stretch nylon as both the first two will rut or rot over time and one day...crash go your memories! The metal hangers that the nylon goes through should be fixed to the wooden frame if possible but are sometimes riveted to the MDF backing board. I don’t like this because there is a potential for the rivet to damage the back of a frame.
© 2008 Stephen Todd
