Conservation Picture Framing Specialists

Conservation picture framing is a specialist framing method that uses archival, acid-free materials and reversible mounting techniques to protect artwork from deterioration. The goal is to preserve the artwork in its original condition while allowing it to be safely displayed. All materials used — including mount boards, adhesives, glass and backing — are chosen specifically to avoid causing any chemical or physical damage to the work.

Standard picture framing prioritises aesthetics and cost-efficiency, but many of the materials used — including standard mount boards, non-archival tapes and basic glass — can actively damage artwork over time through acid migration, UV exposure and humidity changes. Conservation picture framing uses only museum-approved, archival-grade materials and reversible techniques. Every element of the frame is chosen to protect, not simply display, the artwork.

Museum grade framing — also referred to as museum standard framing or archival framing — is the highest level of conservation framing available. It is the standard used by galleries, public institutions and museums to preserve works of art for the long term. Museum grade picture framing typically involves acid-free and lignin-free mounts, UV-protective conservation glass, reversible mounting methods, and sealed backing systems to protect against dust, moisture and environmental pollutants.

If your artwork has sentimental, financial or cultural value — or if you simply want to know it is being cared for properly — conservation picture framing is strongly recommended. It is particularly important for original works on paper (watercolours, drawings, prints, pastels and photographs), which are especially vulnerable to environmental damage. Even reproductions can benefit from conservation framing if long-term display is intended.

Conservation framing uses a specific set of archival-grade materials: acid-free, pH-neutral mount boards; conservation-approved, reversible adhesives such as Japanese tissue; UV-filtering or museum-grade anti-reflective glass; FSC-certified or acid-free backing boards; and conservation-approved frame mouldings. At Menor, we hold an extensive range of these materials across all of our studios, and our framers will guide you through the options most appropriate for your artwork.

Yes. Our conservation framers can inspect existing frames and, where necessary, reframe your artwork using fully archival materials and techniques. We are also happy to provide an artwork condition report — particularly valuable for higher-value pieces that may never have been examined out of their frames — so you have a clear understanding of the artwork's current state before any work begins.

There are several signs that existing framing may be causing harm: yellowing or brown staining around the edges of the artwork (acid migration from the mount board); visible fading or colour shift (UV damage through non-protective glass); tide marks or rippling (moisture damage from non-sealed backing); or tape residue or adhesive staining on the reverse of the work. If you suspect any of these issues, we offer a checking service at all Menor studios to give you an honest assessment and, where needed, a conservation reframing solution.