CHOOSING THE RIGHT FRAME - WHAT YOUR MONEY BUYS.
Whatever the medium, size or subject of your art, the choice of mounts and frames available to you is now wider than ever before. Some art should be protected for future generations and we will advise you on the most appropriate framing for your artwork. We also know how to make even a modestly priced print look its best.

ASK A PROFESSIONAL
Fine Art Trade Guild members commit to a Code of Ethics and support its standards.

TEMPERATURE
Ideally, pictures should not be hung above radiators. Extreme or rapid changes in temperature causes paper and wood to warp and dry out, and adhesives to fail.

EYE-LEVEL DISPLAY
Remember, most pictures are designed to be viewed at eye-level. When hanging a group of pictures of different sizes, consider aligning the top edges. Groups of pictures need not be hung in symmetrical patterns, but they should follow some sort of overall design. Try arranging them on the floor first to get an idea of layout.

HANG SECURELY
As important as any other facet of framing is ensuring your picture is hung securely. Be over cautious and make sure the fixing you use suits the wall type - hard brick or stone, partition stud walls and soft plaster all have different requirements. If you’re not sure, ask us for advice. Check that the cord or wire and hanger you use are designed to support the weight of your framed artwork. Where safety is critical, for example children’s bedrooms, public spaces and schools, ask us about appropriate glazing and security fixings.

A GENTLE CLEAN
Dust frames or brush with a soft brush, rather than risk applying water or cleaning fluids. Don’t use cleaning fluids or water on the varnished surface of oil paintings and, again, dust carefully. If fluids have to be used on the glass, apply them to a duster first (rather than spraying the glass directly) and do not let them touch the frame.

DAMP
Damp can cause pictures to ripple. If the ripples touch the glass, the picture might stick and be hard to remove. Damp also encourages fungal growth - likely to show as brown stains. Conservation framing can slow these effects but it is always best to avoid hanging framed pictures in humid conditions.

OUT OF THE LIGHT
Try not to hang pictures directly opposite large windows as sunlight fades colours and discolours paper. However, special UV-coated glass can help to slow this down. The Fine Art Trade Guild has set industry-wide standards for printing and framing materials so please do ask your framer about the best way in which you can preserve your artwork for the long term.

HANDLE WITH CARE
When carrying and transporting your picture, grasp the frame firmly at both sides. If you have to store pictures, make sure they’re stacked vertically and the right way up. When stacking pictures stand them glass-to-glass so that the hangers can’t damage the frames.