FAQs

With proper care, your framed artwork will stay in excellent condition for years. Follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Dust regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth or feather duster. For ornate frames, a soft brush works best.
• Clean the glazing properly: For glass, use a lint-free cloth with a mild glass cleaner (sprayed onto the cloth, not directly on the glass). For acrylic, use a microfibre cloth with a mild soap-and-water solution – avoid ammonia-based cleaners.
• Avoid direct sunlight & heat: Even with UV-protective glazing, prolonged exposure can cause fading. Keep artwork away from radiators, heating vents and humid environments.
• Monitor humidity: High moisture levels can lead to mould or warping. Avoid hanging artwork in damp spaces like bathrooms unless they are well-ventilated. Adding silica gel packets behind the frame can help absorb excess moisture.
• Inspect annually: Check for signs of discolouration, warping or condensation. Address any issues early to prevent damage.
• Handle with care: Always support frames from the sides when moving them. Store and transport them upright, wrapped for protection.
• Long-term preservation: Over time, mounts and backing may degrade. If materials yellow or adhesives fail, consider re-framing with fresh conservation-grade materials.

A little routine care will keep your artwork protected and looking its best for years

Condensation inside the frame indicates trapped moisture. Here’s what to do:

1. Remove the frame from the wall and place it in a dry environment.
2. Open the frame carefully by bending up the tabs and removing the backing and artwork.
3. Let everything dry completely. If the artwork is slightly damp, lay it flat in a dry space – avoid direct sunlight.
4. Clean the inside of the glazing with a dry, lint-free cloth.
5. Check for damage. If the artwork has severe moisture exposure, professional conservation may be needed.

To prevent future moisture buildup:

• Avoid hanging artwork on cold exterior walls or in humid rooms.
• Ensure the frame is properly sealed at the back with kraft paper tape or framer’s tape.
• Consider placing a small silica gel packet behind the backing to absorb excess moisture.

If the issue persists, reach out to us for assistance with resealing or reframing.

Whether you’re redecorating, moving house or transporting artwork for an exhibition, follow these steps to keep your frames safe:

• Removing from the wall: Always use two hands, especially for larger frames. If it has a hanging wire, lift it off carefully, but immediately support the frame from the bottom.
• Carrying frames safely: Never carry large frames by the wire alone, as it could detach or break under pressure. Instead, hold the frame by the sides or bottom. For oversized pieces, it's best to have two people carry it.
• Transporting frames: If moving, reuse any corner protectors and wrap frames in blankets or bubble wrap. Keep them upright rather than laying them flat to avoid pressure on the glass.
• Temperature changes: If a frame has been in a cold environment, let it adjust to room temperature before hanging to prevent condensation inside the glass.
• Storing frames: When not in use, wrap frames in a soft covering and avoid placing anything directly on the glass. A layer of cardboard over the glazing with bubble wrap around the frame provides the best protection.

Follow these steps to insert your artwork into our custom frames: 

1. Prepare a clean workspace: Lay down a soft cloth on a table to prevent scratches.
2. Open the frame: Turn it face-down and release the backing by bending up the flexi-tabs or turning the swivel clips. If there are screws or a slider, undo them carefully.
3. Remove & clean the glazing: If the glass or acrylic is separate, remove it. Peel off any protective film on acrylic glazing. Clean the surface with a lint-free cloth (glass cleaner for glass; mild soap and water for acrylic). Always spray cleaner onto the cloth, not directly on the glazing, to avoid seepage.
4. Position your artwork

• With a mount: Place the mount face-down and centre your artwork over the opening. Secure it at the top edge using acid-free tape or photo corners. Avoid taping all sides to allow for natural expansion.
• Without a mount: Position the artwork directly on the backing and use small tape pieces to keep it in place.

1. Reassemble the frame: Lay the clean glazing into the frame, then carefully place the mounted artwork and backing board on top. Double-check alignment and remove any dust before securing the backing.
2. Secure & finish: Press down the tabs or fasteners to hold everything firmly in place. Attach any hanging hardware if necessary.