Best of 2022 Part 2

There were so many unforgettable projects from last year that we could not help but share a few more. Our staff looks forward to making YOUR framing dreams come true in 2023!

We created this Ski Patrol shadowbox to showcase the patches, pins and insignia collected over a lifetime of winter sports and service. Our framer Heather organized the many small items into a pleasing, balanced composition. We'd love to help you create a framed collection like this!

One of the stand-outs! This Parisian Carnival Mask in a custom acrylic box looked simply stunning. We created a gold and red fabric platform to add some color and a touch of luxe. The box protects the feathers and mask from dust and light.

Signed jerseys are always fun projects, but this one stood out for the addition of collectible cards. We folded the jersey to keep the project to a reasonable size. The red filet adds a sporty touch to the black shadowbox frame.

The client wanted to have some fun with this original Bob Mackie drawing for his "Fantasy Goddess of Asia" Barbie design. We chose lime-green "Wasabi" silk matting and a rounded gold metal frame for a glam presentation befitting the designer.

A wine mishap led this customer to replace their linen liner. So we took the opportunity and upgraded not only her liner but added a dark wood frame and a perfectly matched fillet. The tones in the frame and liner play so nicely with the image that it creates a presentation that is greater than the sum of its parts.

Why Use Conservation or Museum Glass?

As framer’s, we see the effects of UV light on artwork, color photographs and textiles every day. Unfortunately, once the damage is done, there is no way to reverse fading caused by light. The best way to protect your treasures is by selecting Conservation or Museum Glass when designing framing. If the piece is already framed, but you suspect it may be fading, we can help you to determine the best course of action and replace the glazing if needed. Just bring it in for a consultation!

Fabric items like this Tibetan cap are highly vulnerable to fading caused by UV light. The deep blue fabric mat can likewise fade over time. We selected Museum Glass for maximum protection and minimum glare.

One question we are frequently asked is: what is the difference between Conservation and Museum Glass? Conservation Glass filters out 99% of the harmful UV rays that cause light damage and looks like regular glass: clear and shiny. Museum Glass also filters out 99% of UV light, but has the added feature of being clear and virtually non-reflective because of a special coating. It allows artwork, objects or textiles to be viewed at every angle with very little glare interference. Both products are also available in acrylic options, with the Optimum Museum Acrylic being the highest quality glazing on the market.

If you own art, photos or prints of high value or personal significance, we’re happy to consult with you to make sure you have protected them properly!

Remembering a Special Dog

Pets are a huge part of many families today. We are always honored to help clients create a memento of a beloved animal companion. This client had created impressions of his dog's four paws in a hardened plaster and wanted to protect and display them. After some discussion, we found a wood frame that suggested the color of his pet's coat, and a rough linen mat to complement the smooth plaster. The prints were carefully mounted and recessed into the frame for protection. The finished piece is a beautiful way to remember a special friend. 

A Visit with the Pope

A client brought mementos of a special visit with the Pope in Rome. A shadowbox frame solution was proposed to accommodate the beanie without crushing it. We decided to inset the smaller items into a window in the mat to give them emphasis and visual organization. Attention was paid to both appropriate aesthetics and overall size. The final result is a gem that protects and presents the memory of this event for the client and his family. 

Photo of The Pope, papal beanie, and a crucifix were elements that needed to be included in the shadowbox. 

A deep shadowbox frame in ornate silver was selected for height to accommodate the 4" beanie. The gilded style was repeated in a smaller silver filet.

Batting was prepared to add volume to the inside of the beanie, which will be sewn to the backing mat. Sewing is archival because it can be undone with a few snips. 

The elements are ready for assembly: frame, mat, and mounted objects. 

The project was finished with Museum Glass to protect it from light damage and offer minimal visual interference. Can you see the glass?