Today I'd like to focus on the importance of using Conservation (UV) Glass on nearly anything you're having custom framed. Even when a customer brings in "just a print" (their words), I always recommend Conservation (UV) Glass. Here's why:
# 1. Glass Provides a Physical Barrier. Since you've paid for the artwork, I can only assume that you love it, that you want to continue to enjoy it (for years to come), and that you will take good care of it by dusting it regularly and storing it properly. Conservation (UV) glass is a basic part of good art care. It keeps curious fingers, floating dust and dirt, and ravenous insects from damaging your artwork--even originals on canvas.
# 2. All Artwork Fades. Over time, not only natural sunlight but also the artificial lighting inside your home will cause all artwork to fade. Let me repeat: All artwork fades over time. By artwork, I mean photos, prints, originals, needlework, sports memorabilia, children's art, etc--whatever you're hanging on your wall? It will eventually fade. The best way to prevent fading is to keep your artwork stored flat (unframed) or upright (framed) in a dark, dry place. The second best way to prevent fading is to install Conservation (UV) Glass. It blocks 99% of UV rays from reaching your art. Basically, it's SPF for artwork, and it really works.# 3. Art Restoration & Cleaning is Expensive. Rather than pay for expensive cleaning and restoration later, invest in Conservation (UV) Glass now. Even an original oil or acrylic painting on canvas, which--once it's completely dry--does not need to "breathe" (a common myth), should be protected under Conservation (UV) Glass or Conservation (UV) Acrylite (plexi). Again, glass keeps dirty fingers, bugs, and dust off your valuable artwork. A $50 or $75 pane of glass now is far less expensive than the hundreds of dollars it costs for professional cleaning and restoration services.
# 4. You Have Choices. UV Glass and UV Acrylite comes in three finishes--Clear, Non-glare (aka "Reflection Control"), and Museum, and they all offer 99% UV protection. By far Museum Glass is the best glass for viewing your artwork's true color and detail. Museum Glass is amazingly clear, it has no glare, and there's no "haze" on it to distort the colors and detail. It's pricier than non-glare and clear, but it's worth it if the "haze" of non-glare glass or the "glare" of clear glass bother you. Again, all three types offer 99% UV protection for your artwork.
To learn more about Conservation Glass, click here for a video on glass by Tru-Vue, the makers of the Conservation (UV) Glass I use.
Happy Framing!
JoAnn
