After 104 years of framing, you learn a few things. Here are some of the lessons we have learned:

1. LESSON 1: Use "Rag" for Your Riches
        Regular paper mat board is made from unprocessed wood pulp, which contains acid. This can "burn" your paper artwork, causing it to turn brown, to become brittle or even to disintegrate when you remove it from the frame.
         Look at artwork framed many years ago. Are the bevels in the mats brown? This means they were not framed using conservation methods and damage to the artwork is inevitable.
         At The Art Shop, we use only 100% rag mats, which contain no acid. This will preserve your original artwork or any artwork with sentimental value.
   
   
2. LESSON 2: What You Don’t Know About Mounting
   Can Hurt You
        If permanently mounted to a board, original or limited edition artwork loses its value. Specially designed hinging techniques should be used instead to allow the artwork to "float free" on top of an acid-free backing.
         At The Art Shop, our designers and framers are well-versed in conservation mounting techniques necessary to preserve your artwork in its original form and to allow it to maintain its value.
   
   
3. LESSON 3: Glass: What You Don’t See Is What You Want
        There’s nothing worse than hanging newly framed artwork & seeing only your reflection.
         The Art Shop frame designers are well-versed in the variety of glass options, such as Water White Denglas, which eliminates virtually all reflection without the frosted look of non-glare glass. It also allows the true colors of the artwork to show through.
         Since sunlight is one of artwork’s greatest enemies, UV protective glass may be recommended to filter out harmful rays.
   
   
4. LESSON 4: Which Frame? Which Mat? What Colors? … Help!
        Have you ever walked into a frame shop and been overwhelmed by the choices of mats, frames, glass, etc.?
         The Art Shop’s experienced designers and framers have won numerous awards in regional and national framing competitions. Our goal is to compliment the art – not compete with it. We strive for a classic look you will enjoy forever.
         At The Art Shop, we make sure you are never overwhelmed with choices or under whelmed by creativity.
   
   
5. LESSON 5: Some Letters of the Alphabet Are More Important Than Others
        Namely, the letters CPF and PPFA. CPF stands for Certified Picture Framer, which means the framer has studied conservation framing techniques and has passed a rigorous exam.
         PPFA is the Professional Picture Framers Association, the trade association of the industry. Members attend trade shows and seminars to keep up-to-date on trends, the latest technology and conservation techniques.
         When you see both CPF and PPFA available (as they are at The Art Shop), you know the designers and framers have learned Lessons 1 – 4