In the world of art, a beautiful picture frame can elevate the aesthetics of your cherished artwork or photographs. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for the best picture frame & boxes to display your favourite pieces, you must understand the importance of maintaining and preserving your picture frames for years to come.
In this article, our team at The Picture Factory will share valuable insights on how to care for your picture frames, including display techniques, cleaning methods, and storage advice.
Displaying Picture Frames
Choosing the Right Glass for Picture Framing
While you might not think you have a lot of choice in the matter, selecting the appropriate glass for picture framing is actually a critical step in showcasing your artwork.
Essentially, the type of glass you choose will impact the overall aesthetic and longevity of your framed piece. ‘Regular’ glass, for example, will offer a classic appearance and is relatively affordable, but it may not provide adequate UV protection, leaving your artwork vulnerable to fading over time.
UV glass and non-reflective glass is also available.
Specialised acrylic for picture frames, on the other hand, is an excellent alternative that provides several advantages. It is lightweight, shatter-resistant, and provides better UV protection than standard glass. Despite these benefits, acrylic may require more attentive cleaning methods.
How to Hang Pictures Without Nails
Worried about damaging your walls? Consider picture hanging systems that use rails and cables to securely suspend your frames.
Creative Display Options
While select photographs and artwork can work wonders when displayed independently, there is also a wonderful array of creative displays you can try within other areas throughout your house.
A series of shelves with picture frames and other adornments, such as plants and books, is an excellent way to showcase your collection while adding a touch of style to your living space. You can also create a stunning gallery wall by arranging multiple frames in an aesthetically pleasing pattern. Explore various layouts and themes to create a unique display that reflects your personality and artistic taste.
Cleaning Picture Frames
Picture Clean Techniques
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the appearance of your picture frames, but the approach can differ depending on the material of the frame itself.
How to Clean Older, Wooden Picture Frames
Preserve the beauty of your old wooden picture frames with gentle, periodic cleaning. We recommend using a microfibre duster or cloth, distilled white vinegar, dish soap, and wood oil.
Note: Only suitable for raw timber frames, not veneered.
Be sure to:
- Carefully remove the picture
- Dust the frame, taking note of each groove and crevice
- Clean it with a soapy solution (we recommend testing the solution in a smaller, less visible area first)
- Wipe with a damp cloth (water only)
- Dry it with a clean, microfibre cloth
- Apply wood oil to protect and shine the frame
You want to allow some time for the wood oil to seep in and fully dry before rehanging the picture.
How to Clean a Glass Frame
While certainly eye-catching for their reflective aesthetic, cleaning glass frames requires proper techniques and solutions to prevent streaks and smudges.
Always use a microfibre cloth and a mild glass cleaner to achieve a streak-free finish. Spray the cleaner directly onto the cloth, too, rather than the glass itself, to avoid seeping into the frame. Wipe the glass in a circular motion, followed by a vertical or horizontal motion to remove any remaining streaks.
Storage and Preservation
Picture Frame Boxes During Transport & Long-Term Storage
Storing your picture frames correctly is crucial in preserving their condition, especially during transportation or long-term storage. Invest in picture frame boxes designed to accommodate the size and shape of your frames, particularly with adequate padding and protection to prevent damage from impact or pressure.
Climate-Controlled Storage Solutions
Temperature and humidity fluctuations can wreak havoc on your framed artwork, leaving the frames and pictures constantly expanding and contracting.
Be sure to store your frames in a climate-controlled environment to minimise the risk of warping, mould, or discolouration. Ideal storage conditions for most framed pieces are temperatures between 21-24°C and relative humidity of 40-50%.
Saving on Framing Costs
Proper care and maintenance of your picture frames can help you save on framing costs in the long run. By preventing damage and preserving your frames, you can avoid the need for expensive repairs or replacements. Invest in quality materials and techniques for display, cleaning, and storage to ensure the longevity of your favourite pieces.
Work with Specialists in Custom Picture Framing in Melbourne
As one of the leading frameshops in Melbourne, The Picture Factory can not only help you with creating a custom design to complement your artwork and photographs, but also offer tips to help keep them clean and in pristine condition.
For more information or to get started, please contact us today.
