ARCHIVAL MOUNTING METHODS and CREDO

'The mount is the means to retain the art object in register upon
the support. This must be done using only inert, acid-free and fully
reversible techniques. There may be as many specific
mounting solutions as there are objects to mount.'
When framing fine art and heirlooms, we use three basic types of mounts, with almost infinite variations on each:

  • Trap mounts - This is our first choice of mount if possible. These may consist of corners, channels, build-outs, or encapsulation.
  • Folded-hinge and T-hinge mounts - various weights of Japanese papers with starch paste.
  • Sewing - various colors of cotton and polyester threads.
  • Specialty mounts and object mounts - may include folded acrylic tabs, shaped and sealed wood, bronze or acrylic rod.

All mounts are designed to be fully reversible and acid-free. Each mount is chosen specifically for the artifact we are framing.

For museum exhibitions, we can do all handling and mounting of artifacts on site.

CREDO

Fralin Associates Fine Arts Services is a full-service picture-framing workshop. Our commitment is to representing high-quality conservation and archival-grade framing, and related services. It is our policy to do the research before we begin the framing process. This results in our making the best possible decisions regarding both design (structural and overall) and mounting methods, and using the strictest protocol in our procedures.

Archival and conservation framing is our main objective. We maintain a large repertoire of procedures, mounting and handling techniques, and materials. Our repertoire is based largely on the recommendations of members of the conservation community; mostly professional associates of the American Institute for Conservation.

Our repertoire is continuously updated through open dialogue and consultation with conservators nationwide. Any new project may require researching our methods before work begins.

We guarantee the structural integrity of everything we build. From our mounts and supports, to the frame and strainer, they are designed to stay together, lay flat and carry the designated weight without warping or sagging.