“Built to last”
In this day and age, the phrase can sound more like marketing fodder than a true commitment to quality. But as professional certified framers, we take it seriously. This means we use the highest grade of conservation materials when framing your artworks, photographs, special objects, and memorabilia.
The conservation and archiving industries have learned much over the last 30 years, and are always endeavoring to improve standards and practices. As conservation conscious framers, we believe it is imperative to learn and follow the standards set by the Professional Picture Framer’s Association to ensure that your projects last a lifetime and beyond, and as certified experts, we are committed to continuing education in this field.
When designing and building a framing project, we practice three “P’s”: Protection, Preservation, Presentation. Not every project demands all three P’s, but we will always endeavor to “Do No Harm” by considering conservation methods and materials first.
Protection: We mitigate the risk of damage from light by using UV protective glazing (glass or acrylic) made right here in Minnesota by TruVue. UV glazing is recommended for all artworks, including oils. All light will act to fade artworks, not just the sun! Glazing also helps to protect artworks from dust, grime, sneezes, fingerprints, and physical damage.
Projects are sealed in the back to guard against insects and other pests, and harder substrates are included to guard against punctures. A gently sealed (not air tight) framing package creates a more stable environment when it comes to temperature and humidity fluctuations, and will discourage the growth of mold. When applicable, we also seal the wood on a frame to protect the framing package from acid, and avoid direct contact of artwork to wood whenever possible. The examples demonstrate various degrees and types of damage that can occur. 
Preservation: We use archival quality mat boards, backing boards, and mounting materials. You may hear materials described as “acid free,” which is a general term suggesting the material is pH neutral. The highest conservation grade substrates are those that have been neutralized and buffered to slow the process of oxidation, and/or alpha-cellulose mats in which the lignin has been removed. Solid cotton substrates are natural to preservation standards.
When the project is truly priceless, our mounting methods are non-invasive and completely reversible. In the examples shown, not only was the artwork in direct contact with a acidic wooden board, but it was taped to a non-conservation grade mat board with masking tape. The glue could not be removed and the points of contact had faded and burned the art paper.
Presentation: We make it look GOOD! The appropriate style is of course relative to the client, the space, and the subject being framed. Browse our blog and social media for examples of some of our great designs.
Because every framed artwork or item is unique, it is our privilege to serve you by appointment in order to ensure the time and care that you and your projects deserve. Make an appointment today by calling 651-385-0500 or using our online scheduler at www.redwingframing.com.
One alternative to the “wider mat” guideline is when a piece of artwork is float mounted. This type of design is characterized by an artwork that sits on top of, rather than under, a mat. In these designs, it is standard practice to maintain a small mat margin as seen to the left in this pastel by a customer’s little granddaughter.