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03/22/2004 01:48:16 AM · #1 |
I am preparing my first order at AmericanFrame. Their system is nice but it seems I need to understand what additional supplies I'll need to do the framing.
Do I need, and what is best, for:
1) Framing tape - Which kinds to buy (and seems expensive there!)
2) The backing...does something go behind the foam core backing, like cardboard or something
3) Some kind of pins to hold the backing/photo in the frame? (I am buying a wood frame)?
4) Is archival matting and materials worth it for photographs?
Also, if you have experience with them: I note they only sell plexiglass. How does that compare visually to glass?
Anything else I should know? Any other advice, what to buy, where to buy it.
I laid out the following frame and mats as my test. Any opinions on colors chosen. I picked the cherry frame for this to match some others in the house. But my purchase is up to $90 using archival materials and a $45 cherry frame. There Mica frame (bordeaux color) looks tempting though, and it's only $15!
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03/22/2004 10:01:16 AM · #2 |
1) Can't answer your question on framing tape; I used regular old tape
2) The foam core is the backing. It is a lot nicer than the corrugated cardboard you get in some cheapy frames.
3) The mounting stuff is included with the frame. You get nice spring clips with both wooden and metal frames (although each material gets a different type of spring clip) that holds everything together by compression.
4) As to whether or not archival is worth it, that is probably something only you can answer. =]
IMHO, good-quality plexiglass (which AF sells) is every bit as good as real glass, if not better. Many museums use plexiglass on their expensive artwork because if the piece ever fell and the glass broke, the shattered glass could potentially damage the art. In addition, true, 100% clear glass is quite expensive; most glass has a very slight tint to it because of the minerals in the raw materials. Plexi is also lighter, which is especially important as the frame gets bigger.
Some of the "extras" I bought on my first order were their plexiglass cleaner and anti-static brush. The biggest problem with plexiglass is that it can be very staticy and attract dust, etc. while you are assembling your photo. The cleaner spray and anti-static brush are good for the plexi, and the brush is also great for making sure the print is dust-free.
Message edited by author 2004-03-22 10:26:48. |
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03/22/2004 10:02:54 AM · #3 |
My framer also told me off for mounting pictures on the corrugated cardboard you get in cheap frames - she said it is about the least archival material out there, short of spraying windex directly on to the print...
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03/22/2004 10:08:39 AM · #4 |
For what it's worth, here's what we do on our custom framing:
1) Framing tape: I use Scotch tape - the local framing shop said Scotch Tape is acid free. I found some 2 sided photo tape at Staples and that's what I use to stick mats together and attach the photo to mounting board. I use regular scotch tape to attach the photo to the mat. Although, Staples also sells 'photo' tape one-sided.
2) Foam Core is the best way to go for backing. I don't like corrugated backing - it looks cheaper and it's really bad on your photos (archival wise).
3) I use a point driver because we make our own wooden frames.
4) I agree with Eddy, it's something you should decide on how far you want to go with archival.
I am switching all of our framing over to Plexi, unless I have a client that specifically wants glass. The few times I have used plexi - I find there is no difference in how the photo looks behind it and the frame is much lighter. Plus, Plexi doesn't break like glass does, so I don't worry about it as much.
So far, my only experience with AmericanFrame.com is in buying materials for our own custom framing and I'm not disappointed. I haven't purchased any of their wood though.
Good luck!!! :-) |
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03/22/2004 10:34:54 AM · #5 |
I've used AF quite a bit and am happy with their quality and customer service. Have sketched out custome mats and they've done a nice job (in addition to the normal stuff). I'd suggest getting them to cut the board if you decide to go the foam core route (a must if you're giving this away/selling it) and the plexi as it will fit perfectly with the frame they make. I agree with the other that getting supplies like tape is better at a crafts store, staples, Home Depot.
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