framing a large acrylic painting on paper

schnoubi

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Jan 10, 2005
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Colorado
I have a customer that needs a large acrylic painting that was done on paper to be framed. I assumed it would be OK to frame with a mat, glass, and/or spacers. The question came up that perhaps it needed to breathe, so couldn't have glass. Can anyone help me with this?? Thank you.
 
I will try this one. Ok the breathing you speak of is generally with oil painting. Oil paints take a while to dry completely, it may seem to be dry to the touch however it is not. Acrylic paints are different. They dry relatively quick, that is why artists tend to like them, the quickness in drying. So you do not need for the acrylic to breath like a canvas oil painting or one on paper.
So yes you may frame it with glass, specially if it is on paper. Now make sure you leave enough room for the paper to expand and contract. Sometimes an 8ply mat will give you more security in case the paper tends to ripple or pucker. The eight ply mat would also be suggested if the paint application is thick.
Spacers would be applicable if you were floating this piece.

Ok folks how did i do. schnoubi you will get different opinions on this site, but remember i am always correct )kidding(. Good luck welcome to the site and be sure to take all opinions in before you go forth.
Patrick Leeland
 
If it's on paper, glaze it.

Even oil on canvas can be glazed if it's thoroughly cured and allowance is made for an air space.

Paintings breathing is a framing myth, probably started by a framer who ran out of kraft paper for a dust seal and wanted an excuse to omit it.

(Patrick, you did just fine.)
 
Come on folks! A round of applause for Patrick!!!
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You did great Patrick.

14 hour day. I would have just said: "Glaze that sucker" and maybe use a little sillycone.... :D
Just kidding Kathy...
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Art does not have lungs or the stoma, which plants
have through which they breathe. If any respiration occurs around art, it will come from
bugs or molds and mildews... not good. As has been said, oil has to oxidize as it ages and
premature glazing might be an issue. Acrylic paint
goes through two phases, evaporation of included
water, which leaves holes in the paint surface
and exudation of surfactants, which goes on for
a few weeks. Most items presented for framing should be well past both of these reactions and
glazing is critical to protect the paper, as Ron
noted.
 
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