Our photographs are mounted on double mats. We currently use only acid free mat board.
What is "acid free"?
Our atmosphere is naturally slightly acidic. Any mat board exposed to the atmosphere will become acidic over time, and this acidic condition can damage photographs. This is why our mat board is manufactured acid free.
Mat board colors
The "top" or "outer" mat board used for all our photographs is generally white or off-white, and the inner mat is a color chosen to be complimentary with the colors in the photographs.
Our brushed aluminum frames are available in a black colored finish. The sides of each frame have a brushed texture, and the front curved surface is smooth and has a luster finish. The frames are 1" deep and the curved front surface is 3/8" wide. The frames are joined using metal corner brackets, so they are very rigid. The size of the frame is 1" to 3" larger than the photo size if mats are used.
Our Frames Frame Cross Section Backing
For backing material we use a sturdy white foam core board or cardboard.
Hardware
Each photograph is assembled using metal spring clips which hold the mounted photograph and backing securely in place, even during shipping.
We do not ship our framed photographs with glass, unless you are located in the greater Seattle area. Two better alternatives are available: Lexan XL, Acrylite OP-3 or similar material. We like to use them because:
- They are very lightweight compared to glass
- They are virtually unbreakable
- They filter out 98% of harmful UV light.
- Fingerprints and dust wipe of with any mild soap and water solution
Why filter out UV light?
Ultraviolet rays, such as those emitted by fluorescent lights and the sun, will cause color photographs and mats to fade and deteriorate over time. To protect your photographs, a UV filtering glass or acrylic should be used. Lexan XL 10 and Acrylite OP-3 both filter out 98% of harmful UV rays.
All our photographs are available as fine art prints printed on high quality photographic paper. In addition, you have the option of having the photographs printed on canvas. Our canvas is a cotton/polyester blend with an acid-free base and a matte finish. There are two types of canvas printing:
- Gallery Ready - The photograph is digitally extended an extra 3" on all sides so you can wrap the canvas around the sides of the stretcher bars. Choose this option if you want to stretch and mount the print on stretcher bars yourself and you do not want to use a frame. These are meant to be hung on a wall without a frame. Shipped in a tube.
- Gallery Wrap - We do the stretching for you. The photograph is digitally extended and then stretched and wrapped about 1.5" think heavy duty wood stretcher bars. Chose this option if you do not want to frame the photograph. It will be ready to hang as is and no frame is needed. Shipped flat.