|
Different glazing types.
Standard framing glass .
Most picture framers use a simple 2mm float glass for most of their framing. This glass offers basic protection to general dirt, with a minimal amount of UV protection. This glass is the cheapest real glazing method & provides very acceptable results.
Standard non reflective glass .
This glass is acid etched to give a diffused reflection. It can be etched on both sides, or just one & is more expensive than standard glass. Because it is etched, the glass is more brittle & is in fact worse archival for your picture than its cheaper counterpart.
Perspex .
Perspex is a good alternative to standard glass in conditions where the picture is very large, or very likely to be damaged. Perspex or acrylic, has a much higher resistance to breakages as it can flex to absorb impacts. It does scratch however & will generate static at different times that will attract dust. Another benefit to acrylic is that it is UV protective. This will lengthen the life of colours in direct sunlight.
Perspex also has non reflective variants.
Plexiglass / Shinkolite etc..
There are several different products that are a step above standard acrylic in their conservational qualities. Generally they have been manufactured to release less off gasses that can harm your picture, & better UV stabilisation to protect it.
Museum glass .
This is the top of the line as far as glazing goes. While very expensive, it can offer unrivaled UV protection, with very little reflection & excellent trueness of colour
Do you need glass?
Not all pictures need glass & some are better off without it. Generally speaking, if you have a photo, or work on paper of any kind, it should go under glass. The same can be said for anything with a mat, or anything that can be made dirty like white cross stitches.
If you have a canvas or heavy tapestry, it is probably going to be better off without glass,so you can see the finer detail of the material.
|
Glass back.
It is possible to put glass on both sides of your picture in order to see right through the frame. This can give a minimal look to a work, or simply allow you to easily view the back of the paper.
|
