Question Sealing the back of frames

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kuluchicken

kuluchicken

MGF, Master Grumble Framer
Joined
Apr 2, 2012
Posts
564
Loc
Auckland, New Zealand
If I use coroplast or an archival foamboard as my backing board, is it bad if I use a craft paper to seal the framing package. I know that it is acidic, but it looks tidy. If not, are there any other suggestions please.

I've used thin barrier paper at times, but am not sure if it warrants the expense and whether it's really necessary.

Thanks so much.

Cheers

Michele
 
The main reason I don't use craft paper, but the blue-gray archival grade paper, is that craft paper becomes brittle and breaks apart, which leaves the framing package vulnerable from the back to bugs, dirt and who-knows-what-all.

We switched about 6 or 8 years ago.
 
Backing paper

As Ellen said, a lignin-free paper should out last kraft paper and thus, protect better. No paper is a barrier to gases or deternined bugs. Tyvek will discourage bugs, but a true barrier requires a metal foil, like aluminized polyester or Marvelseal 360, either of which can isolate the contents of the frame from damp walls to some extent. A tough, well bonded backing material will also help keep the frame sides together, which can justify some added expense.



Hugh
 
Having been to NZ, I know first hand, what may seem inexpensive here
in the USA, is quite a different kiwi of a different color in the twin islands.

Also availability of things like Lineco blue paper is another subject. If you are
already using the fluteboard, you may consider just ending with 2" (3cm)
clear shipping tape. . . much like the pommies do. ;-)
 
Thanks so much for the responses everyone. Appreciate the input tremedously.

As Baer expained, an acid free dust cover is unfortunately not available here. The framers here use the brown sealing tape, but I prefer the look of a dust cover with a sticker with my name on the back. It just looks more professional I think.

The thickness and quality of the brown paper (I'm not sure whether they are all called craft paper) will determine whether it splits. I used a bad quality once which did that. The thicker, better quality ones dont.

My concern is whether, because it's acidic, and probably more so if I use an archival foamboard, it will ultimately have a detrimental impact on the artwork. In other words, is it a big no no :)

Thanks once again.

Michele
 
Michele... I think you have little worry about migration from the dust cover paper. Sleep easy.
 
Dave said:
Michele... I think you have little worry about migration from the dust cover paper. Sleep easy.
Click to expand...

That's not really the concern. Any acidic byproducts that leach out of the paper would be separated from the artwork by an air gap (probably) a backing board and maybe a layer of 4-ply matboard on which the artwork is mounted.

The concern is that a paper full of lignin will turn very brittle and shred at the slightest touch. I'm sure we've all seen torn and brittle paper dustcovers on old frames. When they're in that condition they can't serve their purpose of keeping out dust and insects.
 
Baer Charlton said:
If you are already using the fluteboard, you may consider just ending with 2" (3cm)
clear shipping tape. . . much like the pommies do. ;-)
Click to expand...


Two inches is just under 5.1 cm, or 51mm. Three meaty centres (30 mm) is about 1 3/16". I've taken on a whole load of ideas from across the pond, but dustcovers ain't one of 'em - a whole big area, regardless of quality, that can get punctured (and therefore rendered useless as a dustcover). A backing board, sealed with tape .... and seriously not 'shipping tape' is far more puncture-proof.

I like the cosmetics of a 'dustcover' but when I use one, under it will be a backing board, sealed with tape. Can only be punctured where it meets the frame, as could a dustcover anyway. But if I'm missing something I'm more than happy to change.
 
Thanks so much once again guys. I'm going to 'sleep easy' tonight :)

I can be pedantic sometimes, just want to make sure that I do the right thing. I so appreciate the feedback always.

Cheers

Michele
 
And...if you really want to stand out; use gift wrap as your backing paper......especially if you have a backboard sturdy enough already. You could tape that first before the dustcover goes on.
 
John, you're amazing, thank you! I found another product I was looking for as well.

Google is my life line. I must admit I never even thought I'd find something like that here.

Now you've spoilt my sleep, I'm too energised and excited now. :)
 
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