I interviewed Ann and David, our custom framing team at Artserve. They spoke to me about our custom frames and what makes up the fantastic products artists, collectors, and institutions love.

Construction

Fabricating a custom frame takes a lot of precision. Once a customer comes in for an appointment a work order is created which lays out the size of the piece, the type of frame, and its dimensions. The work order is sent to the fabricators where they get started on construction.

Glass/ Glazing

There are many options when it comes to including glazing in a custom framed piece. Depending on the piece, one may even decide not to include glazing whatsoever. The framers will work with you during your first appointment to assess your needs and what material is best for you. The most common options for glazing are, Acrylic, CC Glass, and Museum Glass.

Glazing slots/slides in behind the lip of the frame. This can always be customized to your needs.

Spacer

The spacer is a small, yet important part of any frame. The spacer determines how far away your art is from the glazing. If you do not want your art to touch the glass, a spacer is placed under the glass and hidden under the lip of the frame. This will also serve as added support to the matted artwork.

Matting

The matboard is crucial for supporting your artwork. It is a thicker compressed paper that pieces can be adhered to. There are many different decisions that can be made to a matboard to customize the look you are going for your art. Decisions like, What color, the thickness, weather it is window cut or floated.

Oftentimes you will see a window cut out of the matboard to show your artwork though. This can help hide an imperfect edge, help support a warped piece, or a way to create more white space. You will also see floated artwork. This means it is adhered to the matboard without anything in front of it. This can help accentuate a beautiful edge of the paper or allow a textured artwork to breathe.

There are different attachment techniques based on how the piece is matted. Various materials and qualities are used in tapes to ensure safe adhesion to the matting. It is important that if the frame sustains any damage, and the artwork slips from its mat, the taped hinges take the damage, so the artwork stays safe.

Back of finished frame. Showcases foam core, strainer, and hanging hardware.

Foam Core

Foam core serves as the last defense of the artwork to the outside world. It is the final filler. This provides support as well as protection. Due to its thickness, if something pokes the foam core it is less likely to poke the artwork in front of it. Also, because it is thick, it can help fill the depth of the frame with material.

Strainer

Strainers add support to the frame. They are located at the very back of the frame, sandwiching everything together. The support that they provide keeps the whole frame structure from warping. Any hanging hardware can be attached to the strainer for easy installation.

 

Our custom framers are always looking to bring your projects to life. Reach out and schedule an appointment. David and Ann can’t wait to see what you have in store!

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