Paper
Very humidity sensitive, RH should stay constantly between 45% and 60% unless the work is in a microclimate frame (discussed later), which should be mandatory in coastal, semi tropical areas (such as Florida), or any area with high humidity or anywhere where the humidity alternates between high and low. Paper should be framed behind one of the new glass sheets, which are heat tempered for strength making them difficult to break and have an interlayer of UV filtering material. Some have anti-reflecting coatings, which will diminish more than 90% of this devastating light spectrum. Microclimates are a superb and inexpensive solution allowing works on paper to be framed and hung anywhere, including shaded outdoor areas, pool areas and bathrooms. But still avoid direct light or sun. We have seen occasions where reflected sunlight does great damage. DANGER SIGNS: fading or turning dark – anywhere from ivory to brown; holes or tears; stains; slight color changes in framed pieces at the edges where it meets the mat or frame; evidence of insect activity.
A Word About Framing Documents and Diplomas:
It is our experience that diploma granting institutions will not issue a duplicate for any reason. We recommend (and practice) making replicas; we frame the replica (which, of course looks identical), waterproof it by sealing the original, placing it in the frame behind the duplicate. Now they remain together in the same place, and available should the need arise. We also affix a note to this effect on the rear of the framing as a reminder.
If the original is damaged, we can usually restore it (see example).
