Advice & FAQs

Yes, just about anything can be framed. There are limits to how large some of the framing materials are manufactured though, so please consult with us in order for us to work around any constraints. It’s worth considering what you wish to achieve through framing: is it to display your artwork or object? Is it to preserve the artwork or object? If your purpose for framing is to both display as well as preserve (‘do no harm’), museum-standard framing materials and reversible techniques are essential to achieving your goals. 

These are not interchangeable terms and ‘acid-free’ can be a misleading description about framing materials, leading to disappointing results. pH-neutral matting, backing, tapes and mounting boards are ideal for ensuring chemical stability of the framed environment. Acid-free materials are fundamentally not pH-neutral but are materials which sitting on the acidic side of the pH-scale and then buffered with calcium carbonate to temporarily achieve a less-acidic pH level. This buffering treatment degrades with time and age and the treated materials then revert to their acidic condition. It’s worth noting that materials which are strongly alkaline (therefore technically ‘acid’ free) can be equally harmful to artworks and objects. PH-neutral materials cost slightly more but they are worth the investment and peace of mind.

Yes, glued artworks and needleworks can be restored. Why are they glued in the first place and why is that a problem?

Generally speaking, people prefer their artworks to sit flat inside their frames and for their framed needlework to be taut. For this reason, it is common to see artworks and needlework which have been previously glued to boards, in an effort by picture framers to display these items according to the visual preferences of their clients, without distortion. 

The materials used in this flattening or adhesion process can be damaging to the artwork or needlework. The damage can be caused through insects being attracted to the glue or timber board and eating the board, glue and attached art or needlework, or through the timber board’s lignin content permeating through to the artwork or needlework, causing staining and discolouration. Framers have sometimes used corrosive metal staples or fittings to mount art or needlework, causing staining, pressure marks and tearing.

ARTSHOP's team can inspect your framed artwork or needlework to check if it is glued in a harmful way. We can then advise on the remedial process and carry out this work, ensuring that the art or needlework is restored and remounted in an archivally-sound way.

Yes, we can accommodate domestic and international shipping services for your framed or restored artwork. Our team is experienced in packaging and handling delicate pieces to ensure they arrive in pristine condition. We take the utmost care in packaging your artwork. Each piece is meticulously wrapped using protective materials and custom-fit boxes. This ensures that your framed artwork remains secure and well-protected during transit. Please contact us at framed@artshoptoowoomba.com.au to discuss your shipping needs.