Fine Art Picture Framers

Regarding custom picture framing in Cape Town, selecting the right frame is as crucial as the artwork itself. At Fine Art Picture Framers, we understand that a well-chosen frame enhances your art and preserves it for years to come. Here are some essential considerations to keep in mind when choosing a frame.

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The Importance of Archival and Conservation Quality

Ensuring your artwork's longevity starts with archival, conservation-quality framing. Poor-quality materials can cause irreversible damage over time, especially to prints. Our bespoke framing solutions utilize acid-free mats, UV-protective glass, and sturdy backing to safeguard your pieces from environmental factors like light and moisture.

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Choosing the Right Frame: Simplicity Over Elaborate Designs

A common mistake is selecting overly elaborate frames that overshadow the artwork. At Fine Art Picture Framers, we advocate for simple, clean frames that allow your art to take centre stage. A minimalist approach ensures the artwork remains the hero, enhancing its visual impact without unnecessary distractions.

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Frame Size and Finish: Striking the Right Balance

The size of the frame plays a significant role in the overall presentation. We prefer simple, clean frames with square or sloped finishes, which provide a modern touch while maintaining elegance. These styles complement various art forms, from photographs to large canvases, ensuring a harmonious display in any setting.

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Natural Wood vs. Synthetic Frames: Authenticity Matters

Opting for natural wood frames over synthetic alternatives adds a touch of authenticity and warmth to your artwork. Natural wood feels more genuine and timeless, whereas synthetic materials can appear artificial and detract from the piece's integrity. Our frames are crafted from high-quality natural wood, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.

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Quality of Joinery: Durability You Can Trust

The longevity of a frame hinges on the quality of its joinery. Poor joinery can lead to corners loosening over time. At Fine Art Picture Framers, we employ blind screws and glue to secure frames, ensuring they remain intact and sturdy for decades.

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Hanging Devices: Stability and Precision

Proper hanging mechanisms are essential for maintaining the frame's position and preventing damage. We use two anchor points instead of string or wire, which can place undue pressure on the frame's corners. This method guarantees that your frame hangs flat against the wall, eliminating the risk of it leaning or skewing—a common issue that detracts from the artwork's appearance.

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Glass Options: Protecting Your Art from UV Damage

The right glass not only enhances the visual clarity of your artwork but also provides crucial protection. In brightly lit rooms, we recommend museum anti-reflective glass with UV protection. UV light can cause colours to fade and materials to deteriorate, so investing in quality glass is essential for preserving your art's vibrancy and integrity.

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Special Considerations for High-Moisture Areas

Additional precautions are necessary for frames displayed in environments with high moisture, such as bathrooms. We seal the frames to prevent moisture ingress and include small spacers on the back to ensure airflow, reducing the risk of mould and warping. We utilise high gallery-quality perspex glass for large pieces that require shipping to prevent breakage and ensure safe transit.

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Frame Colours: Versatility to Match Any Decor

At Fine Art Picture Framers, we offer a versatile palette of frame colours, including white, black, charcoal, and various natural wood tones. By guiding our frame colour choices in our workshop, we maintain control over the final appearance, ensuring that each frame complements the artwork and the surrounding decor.

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Modern Frames: Breathing New Life into Older Artwork

A modern-style frame can transform and revitalize older pieces, giving them a fresh, contemporary appeal. This approach enhances the artwork's presence and seamlessly integrates it into modern interiors, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary styles.

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Commitment to Quality: No Shortcuts Taken

Framing is an intricate process that demands attention to detail. Fine Art Picture Framers prides itself on maintaining the highest quality standards. We understand that shortcuts and errors can compromise the artwork's presentation and longevity, so we never compromise on quality. Our 35 years of experience in the picture framing industry ensures that every frame we craft meets international standards.

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Conclusion

Choosing the right frame involves more than just selecting a style that looks good. It requires careful consideration of materials, construction quality, and the specific needs of your artwork. At Fine Art Picture Framers, we offer bespoke, conservation-quality framing services in Cape Town and surrounding areas, ensuring that your art is beautifully presented and meticulously preserved. Trust our expertise to provide cost-effective, high-quality framing solutions that stand the test of time.

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About the Author

Martin Osner owns Fine Art Picture Framers, a premier custom picture framing service based in Hout Bay, Cape Town. With over 35 years of experience in the art business, Martin provides bespoke, conservation-quality framing solutions for galleries, artists, and the public. As a fellow artist, his understanding of craftsmanship and commitment to quality make Fine Art Picture Framers a trusted name in the industry.

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