Question Glass stuck to photo

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freemanframing

Grumbler in Training
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Dec 2, 2008
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Have an 8x10 b&w photo on glossy paper with the (regular) glass stuck to a small part of the image (about 0.5" x 3"). Liquid had been spilled on the photo causing the damage. Besides a very sharp blade, is there anything else that might help get the glass off the piece? Thought of introducing a tiny bit of moisture to loosen the bond but it could dissolve the paper.
 
Welcome to the Grumble, wherein you will find extensive archives. Click 'search' then enter keywords such as 'photo stuck glass' and you will find numerous entries:)

Bottom line, scan it thru the glass, then reprint. Scan it first even if you are going to try something else!

P.S. When you have a minute tell us something about yourself!
 
"...a very sharp blade" would probably result in complete destruction of the image.

Framers have occasionally recommended these methods, none of which work consistently:

1. Freeze it.
2. Heat it.
3. Soak it.

The only recommendation that always works better than any other method is to scan the image through the glass and have a professional photo restorer clean up the damage digitally. Then it may be reproduced in any size or quantity, and the original may be discarded.

Or, once the image is scanned and digitally fixed, you may experiment on the original using those other methods and destroy it without consequences.

Welcome to The G. Good luck with your project.
 
Like everyone agrees, copy it first to retain a record of the image. Then if you're set on removing it, go slowly. I've always found soaking to be the best method. Usually the prints that stick are plastic based emulsions that stick to the glass. Water is used as a final rinse in all photography. With soaking, the moisture will eventually seep between the two and release the print. The image will remain stable because of the chemical imprint onto the emulsion, but care must be taken when handling it to prevent rubbing off any of the paper backing when you work with it. Dont hurry it. If you tug at it too hard before the water has done its work, it could stretch the emulsin and leave a bubble effect.

Oh....KEEP THE BLADES AWAY FROM IT!!!
 
Hi Andrew...thanks, yes, I did already get a copy (and my very pleasant customer understands that the original might not live). Been framing for years but not full time. In the last 6 months I got my own tax# to do it for real. Love framing, day doesn't go by when I don't want to frame something. I'm north of Boston, am going to get the study guides for PPFA cert.
 
yea I know...that's why I haven't had a blade anywhere's near it...wanted corroboration. Thanks to all for the help...Judy
 
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