Conservation Framing Query

[Frame Chick]

Hi All!

I have been framing for about 4 years and have recently started working with a client that is an interior designer with high-end clientele. She loves fabric wrapped matting/fillets/stacked frames, etc...
She obtained some somewhat valuable ($500-$6000 apiece) engravings from a dealer that also frames and that person advised her not to introduce fabrics and fillets in order to keep it "Museum" quality. She prefers to work with me on framing.
I feel comfortable explaining the different effects of introducing various framing elements into a project and the steps that I can take to limit damage as much as possible if she wants to go ahead and include non-ph neutral fabric and fillets.
Another framer told me about a frame/fillet sealant that is brushed on versus the tape version but could not remember the name or where to find it. Does anyone have any info or feedback on this type of product. Also, we have used Framer's Tape II on the back of a fillet to try and seal it somewhat. Is this effective?
I also know that using a rag board between the fillet and artwork will somewhat limit transference. Any advice for a newer framer...I'm also concerned about liability long-term working with a designer who may want to choose non-Museum quality designs for visual reasons versus protecting more expensive pieces!

Thanks!

 

[Baer Charlton]

One option that even FACTS can't dispute is do any mat you want.. add as many wood fillets as you want.... in other words: do exactly what you designer wants.... just tell them that the final design feature will be about a 1/4" visual seperation between the art work and the bottom of the mat....

Then, seal the front glass, mat package and a back glass with Lineco aluminum sealing tape. Space the package from the backer that the art is hinged to.... 1/8" glass is the barrier, 1/8"-1/4" is the air space to separate the art from the back glass.

Now fit.

Only "acceptable" barriers are glass and metal.

 

[Bob Doyle]

By "Museum" did the artist mean of highest conservation quality, or do the artist mean stark black and white, 8 ply mats with 5" 6" borders?

Many artists think that matting, fillets and fabrics "compete" with their work. G with the designers wants ands desires. Listen to the artists concerns, especially if it is for the betterment of the artwork. But let the designer decide, she knows her clients tastes.