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Glazing Options

Ian Kenny Framing is pleased to offer a range of materials that you may wish to consider as an alternative to good quality plain glass.

The primary factor in your choice should always be protection, and glass which can cut out the harmful ultraviolet (U.V.) light will help to conserve artwork, retaining colour values and preventing accelerated deterioration of the piece.

Museum quality reflection control, water white, clear coated glass will reduce reflection at 90 degrees to less than 1%, and will improve U.V. light filtering to 97+% (plain glass is around 45%). A coating of oxides deposited onto the glass works to reduce reflection by counteracting and thereby 'flattening' the light rays as they bounce back off the surface.
It also boasts true colour transmission, and gives a stunning effect of clarity. This type of glass is superb for mixed media works with texture, unvarnished oils, charcoals, fabrics etc as the quality of the surface remains vibrant and clear.

Diffused glass with an etched surface remains a budget option - fine on fabrics for example, where conservation is not an issue, but not recommended in any framing combination which requires the glass to be raised away from the surface of the work. It can be slightly dulling.

Artshield acrylic is a high quality clear material developed specifically for fine art applications. It is extremely resistant to surface damage, and has a good U.V. filter. The other advantage of using acrylic is its lightness, especially significant for larger frames.

Laminated glass for larger options is available. It can come with an anti-reflective, U.V. coating, but can be thicker than standard glass and therefore heavier.

We will be pleased to discuss options with you and quote prices.