When it comes to preserving and showcasing historic and vintage art, custom framing is an excellent investment. Whether you own an antique painting, a rare print, or a cherished family heirloom, the benefits of custom framing go beyond aesthetics. A well-crafted frame can protect delicate artwork from environmental damage, improve its visual appeal, and ensure it remains in pristine condition for future generations. Why is custom framing such a great investment?
Better Protection Against Damage
One of the primary benefits of custom framing is how effective it is at protecting artwork from environmental damage. Historic and vintage pieces are particularly vulnerable to fading, discoloration, and deterioration due to exposure to sunlight, humidity, and indoor pollutants. A custom frame with UV-protective glass can help prevent fading, while acid-free matting can protect against yellowing and deterioration. Unlike store-bought frames, which often use low-quality materials, custom framing ensures that your artwork is showcased in a way that preserves its integrity for decades to come.
Improve the Value of the Piece
Vintage and historic art pieces often hold monetary value on top of sentimental value, so using the right frame can boost their value. A custom frame can be designed to complement the era and style of the artwork to maintain its historical accuracy while improving its presentation. For example, an antique oil painting may benefit from an ornate wooden frame, while a mid-century print might look best in a sleek, minimalist frame. By choosing a frame that considers the artwork’s period and artistic intent, you can highlight its beauty while maintaining its authenticity and value.
Custom Sizing for Uniquely-Shaped Pieces
Many vintage and historic pieces of art do not fit into standard frame sizes. Thankfully, one of the key benefits of custom framing is custom sizing. Custom framing allows you to frame artwork of any shape or dimension without having to crop or alter it. This makes it a great solution for vintage maps, oversized photographs, or unusually shaped paintings. A custom frame ensures a perfect fit while providing your art pieces with the best possible support and protection.
Preserve Your Family Heirlooms and Memorabilia
Custom framing is not just for paintings and prints! It can also be used to preserve historic documents, old photographs, handwritten letters, and family heirlooms. Over time, paper-based memorabilia can become brittle, discolored, or damaged from exposure to light and air. A well-designed custom frame can incorporate archival-quality materials and protective glass to prevent deterioration and allow your treasured family pieces to remain intact for future generations to enjoy.
Personalize Your Frame Design
Another major benefit of custom framing is the ability to create a design that matches your style and decor. Instead of settling for a generic, mass-produced frame, you can choose from a wide range of materials, finishes, and mat options.
Custom framing allows you to:
- Select frame styles that complement the period the art is from
- Use double or decorative mats to enhance the piece’s contrast or bring out certain colors
- Choose between traditional, modern, or eclectic frame styles to match your home or gallery aesthetic
The Chessler Company Can Help You Preserve Your Artwork
At The Chessler Company, we work with interior designers, restaurants, cafés, and other businesses throughout the Mid-Atlantic region to create cohesive, memorable artwork experiences. Whether you need assistance with selecting artwork, framing it, or installing it, we are proud to be your one-stop shop for all of your art needs. Since 1959, our family-owned and operated company has been helping families like yours make memories last forever. To learn more about our framing services, call us at (410) 358-5161, and let us help you decorate your space!