You can frame art without glass by using a museum mount or firmly adhering the artwork to a backing within the frame.
Here’s a breakdown of how to achieve this, along with important considerations:
Mounting Options
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Museum Mount: This method involves professionally mounting the artwork onto a rigid backing board, creating a secure and archival display.
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Adhering to Backing: You can also firmly adhere the artwork directly to a backing board within the frame.
- Use archival-quality adhesives to ensure the artwork isn’t damaged.
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Thick Mat Mounting: Employ a thick mat to mount the artwork, creating a safe buffer between the art and the frame itself. This works well for smaller pieces and offers extra protection.
Key Considerations for Framing Art Without Glass
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Proper Mounting | Ensure the artwork is mounted correctly. This prevents it from warping, curling, or buckling due to environmental factors, especially changes in humidity. |
| Moisture Control | Without glass protection, the artwork is directly exposed to environmental humidity. If your artwork is not properly mounted, it will absorb moisture in the air and cause it to curl or warp. |
| Type of Artwork | Consider the type of art you are framing. Oils and acrylics are typically more resilient and can be displayed without glass. On the other hand, works on paper like watercolors or drawings, are more susceptible to damage and may need added protection. |
| Protection | Glass also offers a level of protection against dust, UV light, and physical contact. When framing without glass, consider applying UV protective spray and hanging it away from direct sunlight and high traffic areas. |
Examples and Insights
- Canvas Paintings: Oil and acrylic paintings on canvas are often displayed without glass because of their resilience and the nature of the medium.
- Thick Papers and Boards: Artwork on thick paper or board can be more easily mounted without glass, provided they are adhered firmly.
- Alternative Protective Coatings: You can explore UV-protective coatings which act as a barrier against environmental elements, when glass isn't being used.
- Cleanliness: Consider the environment where you are displaying your artwork when considering to forgo the glass. Locations with lots of airborne dust or high physical traffic may require glass.
By focusing on secure mounting methods and paying attention to the artwork's specific needs, it's entirely feasible to beautifully and safely frame art without glass.
