Frame Components

The components of a picture frame and the materials used

Anatomy

Frame structure

Custom framing is more than putting a picture in a wooden frame — it is made of several material layers that protect the work and keep it in the best condition, beautiful for a long time.

1. Frame / Molding

The outermost material. It carries the weight and sets the design. Available in solid wood (Teak, Oak, Ash) and aluminium, both strong and durable.

2. Glazing

The layer that protects against dust and UV. Choose from clear glass (Float Glass), acrylic (Acrylic) for large pieces, and anti-reflective glass (Museum Glass) for work that needs the highest clarity.

3. Mountboard / Matboard

Low-acid (Acid-free) board placed between the glass and the picture, so the surface of the picture does not touch the glass. It guards against moisture and mould, and creates Space that makes the picture stand out.

4. The print medium or the original work

An original work is fixed to the backing board with a special method that prevents damage to the original. A reprint may be glued to the backing board to keep it from curling or wrinkling over time or in humidity.

5. Mounting Board

The rearmost board. It holds the picture flat and free of wrinkles. We use acid-free (Archival) material so the picture does not yellow over time.

Frame

Solid-wood frame

The outermost material. It carries the weight and sets the design. We use solid wood, teak (Teak), or for patterned frames we use Larson-Juhl frames, made with real wood and a special laminated wood that keeps the frame from warping even at long lengths.

For work that wants a modern look, we have high-quality aluminium frames — thin but strong and durable — and PU frames, which are easy to care for and the lightest in weight.

Glazing

Front glazing

Float Glass

Standard clear glass. High clarity, good scratch resistance, and easy to clean like ordinary glass.

Acrylic

Lightweight and not easily broken. Suited to large pieces or long-distance shipping.

Museum Glass

Anti-reflective glass that blocks nearly 100% of UV, for the highest level of art preservation. It cannot be cleaned with ordinary glass cleaner. Suited to displaying artwork.

Matboard

Low-acid (Acid-free) board placed between the glass and the picture, so the surface of the picture does not touch the glass. It helps guard against moisture and mould.

A matboard also creates "Space" — empty room around the picture — making it stand out with more depth. White and cream shades are available to suit the picture.

Paper

We have paper for both reprints and artists’ original work. We are glad to recommend paper suited to your work — whether you want vivid colour, deep blacks, or a beautiful paper surface. We stock Archival and Fine Art grades, as well as Uncoated paper with a pronounced texture.

Archival-grade paper is more expensive. Its main feature is lasting for hundreds of years without yellowing (Age Resistance), with accurate colour detail and an appealing surface (Texture).