Please do not hesitate to contact us about any query that you may have, or just to ask us for advice about any framing matter. We will be more than happy to help wherever we can, but do bear in mind that information given over the telephone is given without our sight of your framing requirement or your problem. It is always better to call in to see us at the gallery with the item if at all possible.

Caring for your Artwork -

Needlework -

Humidity is a major enemy of paper, as being hygroscopic, paper naturally absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. This causes the paper to expand as it dampens and contract as it dries, possibly resulting in cockling (rippling of the paper). Moisture also promotes the growth of mould, particularly if the artwork has been framed with the glass directly touching the paper as this can encourage condensation to form.

Light is another danger to be aware of as all light fades works of art on paper. Fading cannot be entirely stopped by subdued lighting but obviously the stronger the light exposure then the faster the fading will occur.  Avoid hanging any artwork in direct sunlight particularly as the Ultra-Violet (UV) rays can be very harmful. Fluorescent lights are also a strong source of UV rays, but fitting Perspex covers to the light fittings can reduce the damaging effect. Display your artwork as far from direct light as possible and consider using UV Protective glass for any valuable or treasured pieces.

It is not a good idea to hang artwork directly above heat sources, such as radiators, as the increased airflow created by the warm air rising across the face of the artwork can help to carry pollutants. The fluctuations in temperature caused by the heating switching on and off can also encourage cockling.

The hanging cord or wire on the back of the frame should be inspected annually for signs of damage or weakening, paying particular attention to stress points where the cord/wire is in contact with the wall hooks and the side frame fixings.

Whilst all of the above points are relevant to needlework you should also consider the following before taking your work to be framed :-

Place the needlework on a clean white board or background to help show up any stains, marks, tail ends or running stitches etc. that could show through.

Any trailing ends of thread that you do not want to see ghosted through the fabric should be worked back into the rear of the needlework if possible, or carefully cut off - it is unfair to ask the framer to cut these off  (We always keep a pair of scissors available at our premises for customers to use)

On needlepoint/cross stitch hold the work up to the light to check for missed stitches.

Check the needlework for pet hairs as these can become trapped under stitches and can even work their way through from the back of the fabric to the front.

Wash or clean any needlework where necessary - you know what fabric and threads you have used and what is the appropriate method of cleaning.

(Click here for further information)

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