Introduction

Matboards play a crucial role in framing artwork and photographs, providing both aesthetic appeal and protective support. To ensure that your matboards remain in pristine condition and continue to protect your artwork, it's important to know how to care for and maintain them properly. In this blog post, we’ll share practical tips and best practices for keeping your matboards looking their best.

General Handling Tips

1. Clean Hands: Always handle matboards with clean, dry hands to avoid transferring oils, dirt, or moisture. Consider wearing cotton gloves for added protection.

2. Avoid Touching the Surface: Try to handle matboards by the edges to prevent fingerprints, smudges, and damage to the surface.

3. Use a Clean Workspace: Work on a clean, flat surface free of debris that could scratch or damage the matboard.

Cleaning Your Matboards

1. Dust Removal:

   • Tools Needed: Soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth, soft brush (like a paintbrush).
   • How-To: Gently dust the surface of the matboard with the cloth or brush to remove loose dirt and dust. Avoid using excessive force to prevent damaging the surface.

2. Spot Cleaning:

   • Tools Needed: White eraser (non-abrasive), slightly damp cloth.
   • How-To: For minor stains or smudges, use a white eraser to gently rub the affected area. If necessary, use a slightly damp cloth to blot (not rub) the spot. Allow the area to dry completely before handling further.

3. Avoid Moisture:

   • Matboards are sensitive to moisture, which can cause warping or mold growth. Keep them away from damp environments and avoid using water-based cleaners.

Protecting Matboards from Damage

1. UV Protection:

   • Why It Matters: Exposure to UV light can cause matboards to fade and degrade over time.
   • Solution: Use UV-protective glass or acrylic when framing to shield the matboard and artwork from harmful UV rays.

2. Temperature and Humidity Control:

   • Why It Matters: Extreme temperatures and humidity can cause matboards to warp, expand, or contract.
   • Solution: Store and display framed pieces in a stable environment with moderate temperature and humidity levels. Avoid placing them near heat sources or in damp areas.

3. Proper Storage:

   • Why It Matters: Incorrect storage can lead to bending, warping, and damage.
   • Solution: Store matboards flat, in a cool, dry place. Use acid-free tissue paper between matboards to prevent scratching and discoloration.

Framing Best Practices

1. Use Acid-Free Materials:

   • Why It Matters: Acidic materials can cause matboards and artwork to deteriorate over time.
   • Solution: Choose acid-free matboards, backing boards, and tapes to ensure long-term preservation.

2. Proper Mounting Techniques:

   • Why It Matters: Incorrect mounting can cause stress on the matboard and artwork.
   • Solution: Use appropriate mounting techniques, such as hinge mounting with archival tape, to allow the artwork to expand and contract naturally.

3. Sealing the Frame:

   • Why It Matters: Dust, pollutants, and insects can enter the frame and damage the matboard and artwork.
   • Solution: Seal the back of the frame with archival-quality backing paper to protect the contents from external elements.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

1. Periodic Inspections:

   • Why It Matters: Regular checks can help identify potential issues early, preventing further damage.
   • Solution: Periodically inspect your framed pieces for signs of damage, such as fading, discoloration, or warping. Address any issues promptly.

2. Professional Cleaning and Maintenance:

   • Why It Matters: Professional services can provide a thorough and safe cleaning, especially for valuable or delicate pieces.
   • Solution: Consider professional cleaning and maintenance services for high-value or intricate framed artworks and matboards.

Conclusion

Proper care and maintenance of your matboards are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your framed artwork. By following these tips and best practices, you can ensure that your matboards remain in excellent condition, continuing to enhance and protect your cherished pieces. With a little attention and effort, your matboards will serve you well for years to come.