Custom Framing » Glazing

Glazing (Glass)

Glazing refers to the use of glass or acrylic as a practical barrier between your art and the atmosphere in which it is hung.  This barrier is necessary because of dust, moisture, ultraviolet light, smoke, acidic fumes, curious observers and a host of threatening conditions artwork often faces. 

Needle art may be glazed or not glazed, as it is typically a personal preference.  Many framers will recommend the use of glass to protect very labor-intensive works of art from staining and other damage over time.  Paintings on canvas are generally not glazed due to a continuous “out gassing” by oil paints which will produce a greasy film on the inside of the glass.    

All glass is not created equally and, for maximum protection, care must be taken to choose the correct glazing for your art.  UV light can cause fading and paper embrittlement which is both cumulative and irreversible. 

Museum Glass:

This is the best option for conserving your artwork.  It is the highest quality anti-reflective picture framing glass available and protects against harmful light rays.  Museum glass provides the highest brightness and contrast levels, and provides optimal clarity for true color transmission.  The result is consistent, durable quality and the most attractive display for your artwork. 

Conservation Clear:

This glass acts as a sunscreen for artwork, blocking most harmful light rays and helping to protect framed pieces, keeping them fresh and attractive for years longer than regular glass.  Conservation Clear Glass is similar to Museum glass, but it does not contain anti-reflective properties. 

Non-Glare and Anti-Reflective:

This glass can be a good choice when reflections are a concern.  Non-glare glass has either a special coating, or has been chemically treated, so that the outer side of the glass softens the reflected light in a room.  Depending on the intensity of the light in the room, this softening effect may be more distracting, as the effect could make your art look hazy, especially when using several mats.  In cases such as this, anti-reflective glazing would rectify the issue.  A special coating on the outside of Anti-Reflective glass reduces the amount of reflected light, which will make the artwork appear brighter and sharper.  Neither Non-Glare nor Anti-Reflective glazing offers UV filtering.  When you need both UV filtering and Anti-Reflective qualities, Museum Glass is your best choice.

Acrylic – Plexi:

Acrylic glazing, or Plexi-glass, is available in various types including UV-filtering and Anti-Reflective.  This glass is recommended for larger works of art, where using glass could be dangerous or overly heavy.  It is mandatory for framed art that will be shipped.

Regular Glass:

This glass may be used for ‘everyday picture framing’, but is not recommended for irreplaceable items, sentimental items, limited edition or original works of art, or for valuable documents.  Regular Glass does provide protection from dust and pollution, but it offers no UV filtering qualities and can allow light and reflection to interfere with your artwork, causing your art to age faster.   

Mirrors:   

Mirrors can be a great addition to almost any décor.  We offer both regular and beveled mirrors in any custom size you need