Frame Backing:Backer Boards and Dust Covers Frame Backing includes Backer Boards and Dust Covers. These items are an integral part of the Frame Package. Let's look at each one separately. A Backer Board should be an acid-free neutral foam board of 4-ply in thickness to better support the frame package. After sealing the rabbet of the frame you secure the frame package and backer board with framers points or small brads to the frame. The framing is considered finished when the framing package is placed into the frame and its dustcover has been applied. A Dust Cover is required for archival framing and consists of heavy paper that covers the back of the frame for both aesthetics as well as preservation purposes. This dust cover will keep dust and grime from entering the frame package at the edges. If a heavily textured paper such as ground wood Kraft paper is used it can be expected to degrade in a matter of years and will fail most of the time at the top margin where there is usually more air circulation. To make matters worse, this is also the part of the frame to get the most wear from inexperienced handlers grasping the frame at this point, puncturing the paper The punctured area becomes an excellent dust catcher and further damage is likely to happen. To avoid this common puncture problem with frame backing, use conservation quality paper. The dust cover should be applied dry to the back edge of the frame with a bead of Polyvinyl Acetate Glue. This glue really works well and Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) The glue must be kept away from the edge where the back of the frame meets the rabbet or the glue will drip into the frame package causing damage to the art. Additional information is available at
Conservation and Restoration.
For additional information on framing, visit Matting and Mat Boards, Mounting Art, Glazing, or Conservation and Restoration. Framing Design--Form and Function. Return to Framing Art or HOME.
|
