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Hi all, just wanted to stick my nose in for a minute <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> . Before I went full time on my art, I used to work as a professional framer, and let me tell you! I've seen all the disasters you can imagine! I thought that I would add a few tips, for those who like framing their work.
#1 ALWAYS ask for archival quality backing board. And don't let them get away with archival mat board, the front is still acidic (some companies like to cheat). If you don't over time your work will turn yucky colors.
#2 ALWAYS ask for pin stretching. Some companies will not offer this, because it is very labor intensive. And some companies actually stretch your work on sticky board! Talk about not acid free!!! They wont tell you, so you have to ask. I suggest learning how to do it yourself, after all you never know if a job is done right, unless you do it yourself <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> ,
#3 check the height of your stitches. If you are putting a mat around it, will the glass still touch the fabric of your work? if so, ask for dividers. They are clear (or wood colored) little inserts that hold the glass up off your picture. You can't see them when it's done, but you'll be glad you did it later. If you do not have a matt, then DEFINITELY get those put in!!! Over time moisture can seep into the frame, and can collect on the inside of the glass... this WILL grow mold eww. OH, and don't let the framer say that the backing paper of the frame will hold moisture out... do you really believe that paper will stand up to water? especially over time?
#4 if you are putting a mat around your picture, once again INSIST on archival (acid free) mat board. Don't worry about the face not being acid free, it's the back that touches your work.
and the final rule (that I can think of right now) NEVER let the framer rule what the color choices will be. This is your piece, they are just there to offer suggestions. Truely, pick what YOU like, don't worry about what other people, who have been staring at colors all day long till they all look the same, think <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />
I hope this helps <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
Thank you for this - it is something that embroiderers (especally cross stitchers) are always after.

Most of us have no idea about framing, and go throught the "hit and miss" method of finding a good (reliable, honest) framer.
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