[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"app-navigation":3,"blog-category-glazing":138,"posts-1-10-glazing":141},{"tree":4,"leafs":137},[5,30,47,64,77,133],{"uid":6,"label":7,"to":8,"children":9},"MTM0","Custom Frames","/ctg/custom-frames",[10,14,18,22,26],{"uid":11,"label":12,"to":13},"MjI3","Custom Wood Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/wood",{"uid":15,"label":16,"to":17},"MjI2","Custom Metal Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/metal",{"uid":19,"label":20,"to":21},"MjI4","Custom Floater Frames","/ctg/custom-frames/canvas-floater-frames",{"uid":23,"label":24,"to":25},"MjI5","Stretcher Bars","/ctg/custom-frames/stretcher-bar-frames",{"uid":27,"label":28,"to":29},"MjMw","Frame Samples","/ctg/custom-frames/frame-moulding-samples",{"uid":31,"label":32,"to":33,"children":34},"MjMz","Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic",[35,39,43],{"uid":36,"label":37,"to":38},"Mjk0","Non-Glare Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/non-glare",{"uid":40,"label":41,"to":42},"Mjky","Standard Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/standard-glass-acrylic",{"uid":44,"label":45,"to":46},"Mjkz","UV Filter Glass & Acrylic","/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/uv-filter",{"uid":48,"label":49,"to":50,"children":51},"MjMx","Matboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board",[52,56,60],{"uid":53,"label":54,"to":55},"MjY0","Custom-Cut Matboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/pre-cut-mats",{"uid":57,"label":58,"to":59},"MjM2","Full Sheet Matboards","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/full-sheet-mat-boards",{"uid":61,"label":62,"to":63},"MjM1","Matboard Color Samples","/ctg/framing-supplies/mat-board/mat-board-samples",{"uid":65,"label":66,"to":67,"children":68},"MjMy","Foam Boards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board",[69,73],{"uid":70,"label":71,"to":72},"Mjg5","Custom-Cut Foam Boards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board/custom-foam-board",{"uid":74,"label":75,"to":76},"MjM3","Full Sheet Foam Boards","/ctg/framing-supplies/foam-board/full-sheet-foam-boards",{"uid":78,"label":79,"to":80,"children":81},"MTM1","Framing Supplies","/ctg/framing-supplies",[82,107,120],{"uid":83,"label":84,"to":85,"children":86},"MTM1-group-0","Assembly & Mounting","/ctg/framing-supplies/assembly-and-mounting",[87,91,95,99,103],{"uid":88,"label":89,"to":90},"MjQz","Adhesives & Glue","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/adhesives-glue",{"uid":92,"label":93,"to":94},"MjQy","ATG Tape","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/atg-tape",{"uid":96,"label":97,"to":98},"MjQw","Hinging Tape & Tissue","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/hinging-tape-tissue",{"uid":100,"label":101,"to":102},"MjQx","Photo Corners & Strips","/ctg/framing-supplies/photo-mounting-supplies/photo-corners-strips",{"uid":104,"label":105,"to":106},"MjM0","Picture Frame Spacers","/ctg/framing-supplies/picture-frame-spacers",{"uid":108,"label":109,"to":110,"children":111},"MTM1-group-1","Hanging & Finishing","/ctg/framing-supplies/hanging-and-finishing",[112,116],{"uid":113,"label":114,"to":115},"MjQ0","Hanging Hardware","/ctg/framing-supplies/picture-frame-hanging-supplies",{"uid":117,"label":118,"to":119},"MjQ2","Cleaning Supplies","/ctg/framing-supplies/cleaning-supplies",{"uid":121,"label":122,"to":123,"children":124},"MTM1-group-2","Protection & Storage","/ctg/framing-supplies/protection-and-storage",[125,129],{"uid":126,"label":127,"to":128},"Mjk4","GalleryPouch™ Art Bags","/prod/gallery-pouch",{"uid":130,"label":131,"to":132},"Mjc4","Photo Storage Boxes","/ctg/framing-supplies/backing-and-protection-supplies/clear-bags-and-storage-boxes",{"uid":134,"label":135,"to":136},"Mjgx","Sale","/ctg/picture-frames-discount",{"MjI3":10,"MjI2":14,"MjI4":18,"MjI5":22,"MjMw":26,"Mjk0":35,"Mjky":39,"Mjkz":43,"MjY0":52,"MjM2":56,"MjM1":60,"Mjg5":69,"MjM3":73,"MjQz":87,"MjQy":91,"MjQw":95,"MjQx":99,"MjM0":103,"MjQ0":112,"MjQ2":116,"Mjk4":125,"Mjc4":129,"Mjgx":133},{"id":139,"name":140},"dGVybTozMTE=","Glazing",[142,155,167,179,191,203,215,227,239,251],{"id":143,"title":144,"uri":145,"content":146,"excerpt":147,"date":148,"categories":149,"image":152},"cG9zdDo4NTY0","Acrylic Glass vs Plexiglass: Which is Best For Your Framing Project?","/glazing/acrylic-glass-vs-plexiglass","\n\u003Cp>When it comes to framing your cherished artwork, photos, or memorabilia, selecting the right glazing material is critical for ensuring both protection and aesthetic appeal. The choice between \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic.html\">acrylic for picture frames\u003C/a> and plexiglass often sparks debate among framing enthusiasts. While these terms are frequently used interchangeably, they do have nuances that can influence your decision. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you're looking for a short answer: acrylic tends to be the better option for most framing needs due to its superior optical clarity, lightweight properties, and versatile protective features. However, plexiglass may be a suitable alternative in specific scenarios. Let’s break down the differences, benefits, and best use cases for both materials.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding Acrylic and Plexiglass\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/image/upload/q_auto,f_auto,c_scale/media/catalog/category/FD-WebAssets_CatHero_GlassandAcrylic_jbfois.jpg\" alt=\"acrylic glass vs plexiglass\"/>\u003C/figure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Acrylic?\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic is a transparent plastic material known for its optical clarity and durability. It’s often used as a substitute for glass in framing because it is lighter, less fragile, and can include various coatings like UV protection or anti-glare finishes. Acrylic is a broad category, encompassing multiple brands and grades, such as Lucite and Acrylite.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Plexiglass?\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Plexiglass is a brand name that refers to a specific type of acrylic sheet. It shares most properties with generic acrylic but is often marketed as a high-quality option. Essentially, plexiglass is a type of acrylic, but not all acrylic is plexiglass.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Differences Between Acrylic and Plexiglass\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>While acrylic and plexiglass share many similarities, their distinctions come down to subtle factors such as manufacturing process, durability, and cost.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Material Composition and Manufacturing\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic can be manufactured using two processes: extruded acrylic and cast acrylic.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Extruded Acrylic: Less expensive and ideal for projects that don’t require the highest level of clarity or durability.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Cast Acrylic: Offers better optical clarity, scratch resistance, and uniformity, often found in premium applications like art framing.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Plexiglass is generally made using the cast acrylic process, meaning it typically has higher quality and uniformity compared to lower-grade acrylic products.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Durability and Resistance\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Both acrylic and plexiglass are far more impact-resistant than glass, but their resistance to scratches and warping can vary:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Plexiglass tends to be more scratch-resistant due to its high manufacturing standards.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Generic acrylic may scratch more easily but often comes with coatings to counteract this.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Cost\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Plexiglass, being a branded and higher-quality material, can cost more than generic acrylic. If you are working on a budget, extruded acrylic may provide a cost-effective solution without sacrificing too much in terms of quality.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits of Acrylic for Framing\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic is a favorite choice among professional framers and art enthusiasts for several reasons:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Lightweight and Shatterproof\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic weighs about half as much as glass, making it ideal for large frames or installations that require mobility. It is also shatter-resistant, ensuring your artwork stays safe even in high-traffic areas or during transit.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"has-text-align-center\">\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic.html\">Shop Picture Frame Glass and Acrylic\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Customizable Protective Features\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic sheets are available with additional coatings, including:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>UV Protection: Blocks harmful ultraviolet rays, preventing fading or discoloration of your artwork.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Anti-Glare Coating: Reduces reflections, ensuring your framed piece is visible from any angle.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Scratch-Resistant Coating: Increases durability and reduces wear over time.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Optical Clarity\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic offers exceptional clarity, often appearing as transparent as glass, without the risk of greenish tints that some low-quality glass products can exhibit.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits of Plexiglass for Framing\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>While plexiglass shares many of the same advantages as acrylic, its standout features make it particularly well-suited for high-value or professional framing applications.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Superior Durability\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Plexiglass is more resistant to warping and discoloration compared to some lower-grade acrylics. If you are framing items for long-term display, especially in varying environmental conditions, plexiglass offers an edge.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Enhanced Scratch Resistance\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The high manufacturing standards of plexiglass ensure it is less prone to scratching compared to extruded acrylic, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas or professional galleries.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Drawbacks to Consider\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Acrylic\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Susceptible to Scratches Without Coatings: Uncoated acrylic can scratch easily, so it may not be suitable for areas with heavy handling.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Static Attraction: Acrylic tends to attract dust due to static electricity, which can be problematic for delicate materials like pastels or charcoals.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plexiglass\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Higher Cost: As a branded product, plexiglass is often more expensive than generic acrylic, which can make it less appealing for budget-conscious projects.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Weight: While still lighter than glass, plexiglass can be slightly heavier than some extruded acrylic options.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which Should You Choose for Framing?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choose Acrylic If:\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>You want an affordable, versatile, and lightweight solution.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>You need UV protection or anti-glare features for preserving and displaying art in various lighting conditions.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Your frame will be moved frequently, making shatter-resistance a priority.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choose Plexiglass If:\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>You are framing high-value or professional artwork where durability and optical perfection are paramount.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>The framing environment may expose the glazing to more wear and tear, requiring enhanced scratch resistance.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Budget is less of a concern, and you’re seeking a premium-grade material.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips for Using Acrylic or Plexiglass in Framing\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Handle With Care\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Always wear gloves when handling either material to avoid leaving fingerprints or scratches.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Clean Properly\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Use a microfiber cloth and a cleaner specifically designed for acrylic to prevent damage or clouding.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Opt for UV Protection\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If your artwork will be exposed to natural light, prioritize materials with UV-blocking capabilities to avoid fading over time.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Match the Material to the Project\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For large frames or intricate designs, the lightweight properties of acrylic or plexiglass make them much easier to manage than glass.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When choosing between acrylic and plexiglass for framing, the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the value of the item being framed. For most projects, acrylic provides a winning combination of affordability, versatility, and protection. However, if you’re framing valuable or professional artwork, plexiglass may be worth the extra investment for its durability and clarity.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>By understanding the differences and evaluating your priorities, you can confidently choose the best glazing material to showcase and protect your treasured pieces for years to come.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Further Reading:\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/glazing/glass-vs-acrylic-for-photography-framing\">Glass vs Acrylic for Framing\u003C/a>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/glazing/the-benefits-of-acrylic-glazing\">Benefits of Acrylic in Framing\u003C/a>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/glazing/pros-and-cons-of-acrylic-for-framing\">Pros and Cons of Acrylic \u003C/a>\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Written by \u003Ca href=\"/info/mark-rogers-author.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mark Rogers\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/c_lpad,dpr_2.0,q_auto/v1/media/wysiwyg/Mark_Rogers.jpeg?_i=AB\" style=\"float:left;height:100px;width:100px;padding:5px;\" alt=\"Mark Rogers\"> Mark Rogers is the President and Co-Founder of Frame Destination. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Mark has become a leading authority on framing techniques and best practices, and has earned a reputation for his innovative approaches to custom framing and frame services for photographers and artists.\u003C/p>\u003Cbr>\n\n\n\n\u003Cstyle>h2, h3, h4 {padding:10px 1px;}\u003C/style>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>When it comes to framing your cherished artwork, photos, or memorabilia, selecting the right glazing material is critical for ensuring both protection and aesthetic appeal. The choice between acrylic for picture frames and plexiglass often sparks debate among framing enthusiasts. While these terms are frequently used interchangeably, they do have nuances that can influence your […]\u003C/p>\n","2025-01-13T14:22:45",[150],{"name":140,"slug":151},"glazing",{"url":153,"label":154},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/glass-vs-acrylic.jpg","glass vs acrylic",{"id":156,"title":157,"uri":158,"content":159,"excerpt":160,"date":161,"categories":162,"image":164},"cG9zdDoyOTEz","How Do UV Filters Work in Picture Frames?","/glazing/how-do-uv-filters-work-in-picture-frames","\n\u003Cp>Light is artwork’s greatest friend, allowing us to view and appreciate art, but it is also its greatest foe: it can cause serious, irreversible damage to any type of unprotected artwork. The glass and art preservation industries have developed countless products to protect these precious pieces from light while still allowing us to display art, including \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/tru-vue-conservation-clear-glass.html\">UV-filtering glass for framing\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is UV Light?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>UV light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, of which visible light (i.e. the light we can see) is also part. We cannot see UV light, and it features shorter wavelengths than visible light and therefore more energy.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This powerful light breaks down the chemical bonds that allow us to see the color of an object, which causes the color to fade. This is only one outcome of photodegradation, the term for damage caused by light; others include embrittlement, yellowing and disintegration. Artwork is particularly susceptible to photodegradation, considering it often uses materials that are quickly damaged by light such as dye and paper.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Protecting Against UV Light: Picture Frames\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/glass.html\">Standard glass\u003C/a> (most commonly soda lime glass, which is used for both windows and picture frame glazing) actually provides some UV protection, absorbing about 97% of UVB rays; however, UVA rays, which also cause damage, can still penetrate the glass.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To qualify as “providing UV protection” by the Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA), the UV filter must be able to block at least 97% of all UV rays, including UVA and UVB. There is no single method to ensure that picture framing glass protects against UV light, and different manufacturers of glass have come up with their own proprietary coatings and techniques.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Laminated glass, a type of safety glass used commonly for car windshields, is like a glass sandwich: it uses sheets of glass with an interlayer made of various materials, most commonly polyvinyl butyral (PVB). \u003Ca href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19614895\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">According to one study\u003C/a>, this type of laminated glass completely blocks both UVA and UVB radiation. Laminated glass is less common in picture framing due to its considerable weight and cost, but there are certain manufacturers such as Tru-Vue that carry this type of glass for particularly valuable items.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Other types of UV glass feature a special coating that either filters, or blocks, the UV light or absorbs the UV light. A coating that filters UV light does not allow UV rays to enter the glass, while UV filters that absorb light effectively “trap” it before it gets to the artwork underneath. Artglass, for example, uses a UV-blocking molecular film that \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/glazing/the-science-behind-artglass\">blocks over 90% of UV light\u003C/a>, depending on the model. UV protection on glass use coatings like the above; with UV-filtering acrylic, the protection is built in.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Frame Destination carries several types of UV-filtering glazing:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/tru-vue-conservation-clear-glass.html\">Artglass 99 UV-Filter\u003C/a>, blocking 99% of UV light\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/tru-vue-museum-glass-uv-protection.html\">Water White Anti-Reflective UV Glass\u003C/a>, blocking 92% of UV light\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic/uv-filter.html\">UV Filter Acrylic\u003C/a>, blocking 98% of UV rays\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>UV Filter/Non-Glare Acrylic, blocking 92% of UV light\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Neither is “better” than the other, and the quality of the framing glass depends on many more factors than the mechanism of UV filtering, such as its clarity and any anti-reflective properties. The only surefire way to protect artwork from UV light is to store it in \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/c/archival-photo-storage-box-acid-free.html\">archival photo storage boxes\u003C/a> and display a framed copy, as even glazing that filters 99% of UV light cannot completely stop degradation.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To best protect your possessions but still display your artwork, choose a suitable UV-filter glass and rotate out the pieces you display every few months, making sure that no paintings, prints and photographs are hanging in direct sunlight.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Written by \u003Ca href=\"/info/mark-rogers-author.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mark Rogers\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/c_lpad,dpr_2.0,q_auto/v1/media/wysiwyg/Mark_Rogers.jpeg?_i=AB\" style=\"float:left;height:100px;width:100px;padding:5px;\" alt=\"Mark Rogers\"> Mark Rogers is the President and Co-Founder of Frame Destination. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Mark has become a leading authority on framing techniques and best practices, and has earned a reputation for his innovative approaches to custom framing and frame services for photographers and artists.\u003C/p>\u003Cbr>\n","\u003Cp>Light is artwork’s greatest friend, allowing us to view and appreciate art, but it is also its greatest foe: it can cause serious, irreversible damage to any type of unprotected artwork. The glass and art preservation industries have developed countless products to protect these precious pieces from light while still allowing us to display art, […]\u003C/p>\n","2018-07-26T09:00:18",[163],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":165,"label":166},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/FrameDestination-Blog-UV-Filters.jpg","how UV filters work",{"id":168,"title":169,"uri":170,"content":171,"excerpt":172,"date":173,"categories":174,"image":176},"cG9zdDoxODYx","Choosing the Right Picture Framing Glass for Clarity and Protection","/glazing/choosing-the-right-framing-glass-for-clarity-and-protection","\n\u003Cp>When you’re framing a piece of art or a photo and it comes time to choose which type of glass you’d like, how do you decide? Glazing, or frame glass, is an often overlooked step in the framing process because most people focus on the mat and frame. \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/glazing/glass-vs-acrylic-for-photography-framing\">Choosing the right glazing\u003C/a> can make a dramatic impact on how your art is displayed and preserved.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Glass, as opposed to plastic or acrylic, has the benefit of being scratch-resistant although it’s heavier and more fragile. There are different finishes on framing glass that result in different clarity and visibility levels. The purpose of glazing is to protect the art from humidity, heat, and damage. Glazing materials also prevent abrasion from dust and protect art from both artificial and UV light.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The least visible glazing best displays the artwork, with the goal to achieve “invisibility” with the glass. Glazing with additional protective coatings help preserve the art but result in a less clear view. In this post, we’ll cover some of the options available for \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic.html\">framing glass\u003C/a> and their pros and cons.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of Glass for Picture Framing\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plain glass\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Plain glass, which is the least expensive option for framing, is usually between 2mm and 3mm in thickness. It’s sometimes called standard, float glass, or basic glass and you can find it in ready-made frames. This is the lowest grade offered and suitable for many types of framing work. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Pros:\u003C/strong> Inexpensive, protects against dust, can see the art clearly\u003Cbr>\u003Cstrong>Cons:\u003C/strong> Slight green tint, reflects overhead lights and sunlight, which can obscure your view of the picture\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Non-Glare Glass\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/anti-reflective-water-white-artglass-ar70.html\">Non-glare picture frame glass\u003C/a> has an etched surface that helps to disperse the light and reduce reflections. The etched sureface has the drawback of slightly reducing the sharpness. For instance, it imight be more difficult to make out individual hairs on a portrait of a person for example. For this type of glass to work properly it has to be close to the artwork so it can’t be used in picture frames with large spacers or in a shadow box frame.\u003Cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"> \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Pros:\u003C/strong> Least expensive reflection control glass\u003Cbr>\u003Cstrong>Cons: \u003C/strong>Slight loss of sharpness, cant be used in a shadow box frame\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anti-Reflective Glass\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This type of glass has a special type of coating to greatly reduce reflections very similar to that used on glasses and sun-glasses you wear.\u003Cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"> \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Pros:\u003C/strong> Virtually eliminates reflections\u003Cbr>\u003Cstrong>Cons: \u003C/strong>Most expensive type of refection control glass\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Water White Glass\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Standard glass is composed of iron which gives the glass a slight green tint. Normally it is not real noticable, however if you take a piece of framing glass and lay it over half of a blank sheet of white printer paper you will notice the section under the glass has a slight green tint and is not as bright as the paper not covered by the glass.\u003Cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"> \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Pros:\u003C/strong> Increased visibility of the artwork, virtually no color distortion of the artwork\u003Cbr>\u003Cstrong>Cons: \u003C/strong>Increased cost\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ultraviolet (UV)-protected glass\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>UV can damage your art as it’s transmitted through the glass, to guard against this some glass coating reflects or absorbs the UV spectrum. Some use organic UV absorbers, which are added to a silica-based coating to create an absorbing layer on one side of the glass.This coating can will block anywhere from 92% to 99% of the UV radiation. The drawback to these filters is they create a slight warming effect on the color of artwork. This will be especially true with coatings that block 98% or more UV radiation. .\u003Cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"> \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Pros:\u003C/strong> Protects against fading\u003Cbr>\u003Cstrong>Cons:\u003C/strong> Increased cost, slight warming effect of the artwork’s color\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Glass for Protecting Your Work\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you primary goal is protection then you want to ensure you go with a glass that includes 98% or 99% UV-filter such as Frame Destination’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/uv-filter-artglass-99.html\">UV-Filter ArtGlass 99\u003C/a>.\u003Cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"> \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Glass for Image Clarity\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When your primary goal is clarity you will want to go with a glass that is both water white and includes an anti-reflective coating such as as Frame Destination’s \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/anti-reflective-water-white-artglass-ar70.html\">Anti-Reflective Water White ArtGlass AR70\u003C/a>.\u003Cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"> \u003C/span>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Glazing for Protection and Clarity\u003C/h4>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When you want the best of both clarity and protection, then you can look for a water white glass with both the UV filter and anti-refleciotn coating such as our \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/uv-anti-reflective-water-white-artglass-ar92.html\">UV Anti-Reflective Water-White ArtGlass AR92\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Glass Selection is Important for Preservation Framing\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Preservation framing is an important process to maintain the life of your photos and artwork. Choosing the right glazing is a critical step and framing professionals can advise you on which type to choose. Ultimately, though, it is up to you to protect your art and make sure it doesn’t become discolored or faded over time. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>At Frame Destination, we have the perfect options for all of your framing needs with a range of glazing options for all projects. Educate yourself on quality framing materials, obtain advice and help from a professional framer, and keep your art away from heat and sunlight so you can maintain it for as long as possible.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For quick primers on picture frame glazing see our infographics on \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/info/glass-acrylic-graphic.html\">Glass vs. Acrylic\u003C/a> and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/info/how-light-affects-artwork.html\">How Does Light Affect Artwork\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>When you’re framing a piece of art or a photo and it comes time to choose which type of glass you’d like, how do you decide? Glazing, or frame glass, is an often overlooked step in the framing process because most people focus on the mat and frame. Choosing the right glazing can make a […]\u003C/p>\n","2016-02-04T09:46:30",[175],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":177,"label":178},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/160204_FrameBlog_Clarity.jpg","glass protection",{"id":180,"title":181,"uri":182,"content":183,"excerpt":184,"date":185,"categories":186,"image":188},"cG9zdDoxNzUy","OBA Inkjet Paper and Framing Glass Choices","/glazing/oba-inkjet-paper-and-framing-glass-choices","\u003Cp>Improper framing can make your print look yellow and faded if you are using inkjet paper that contains Optical Brightener Agents (OBAs). The latest, brightest white inkjet papers such as Epson’s Exhibition Fiber paper use OBAs. Optical Brighteners are additives used to make paper look whiter. They may also be called artificial whiteners. These brightener agents take in ultraviolet (UV) radiation and re-emit it in the blue spectrum, which is visible to our eyes. UV radiation is one of the main contributors to prints fading and discoloring over time, so if you are framing for preservation, you want to use glass with a UV filter. Guess what happens if you block UV radiation on a paper with optical brighteners? The print will instantly look yellow and faded since the OBAs have no UV radiation to transform.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg width=\"550\" height=\"500\" data-public-id=\"blog/Exibition-Fiber-Display/Exibition-Fiber-Display.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-post-1752 wp-image-1753\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_550,h_500,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661460643/blog/Exibition-Fiber-Display/Exibition-Fiber-Display.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Exibition Fiber Display\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661460643\" data-seo=\"1\" />\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Most inkjet papers have optical brighteners except for those marketed with something called “natural white”. Find out more about how they are used in paper \u003Ca href=\"http://www.redrivercatalog.com/infocenter/articles/optical-brighteners-in-your-inkjet-paper.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>OBAs are one of the main reasons for the slight warming effect that occurs when you place glass or acrylic with a 99% UV filter over a print. If you cover a piece of Epson Exhibition Fiber paper, which contains high levels of OBAs, with UV filter glass and view it in daylight the warming effect will be exaggerated with an obvious color shift.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Not only are OBAs neutralized by conservation framing with UV-filtered glazing, they are dye-based instead of pigment-based, which means they are more prone to fading over time. OBAs also impact other colors on the print, so this combined with UV glazing and the normal fading of OBAs over the long term will cause even more color shifts in the print. Aardenburg Imaging Archives has more details on OBAs and print longevity \u003Ca href=\"http://aardenburg-imaging.com/optical-brighteners-obas/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">here\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>Test: What glazing discolors paper containing high levels of OBAs the least?\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>For this test, I placed 8 different types of glazing (glass and acrylic) on a sheet of Epson Exhibition paper containing some of the highest levels of OBAs, and photographed them in bright midday sunlight.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>\u003Cem>Results\u003C/em>\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Glass or acrylic with a 98% or greater UV filter has the most discoloration. Glass and acrylic without a UV filter will still block 40-60% of the UV light. Reflections and iron in the glass will also discolor or reduce brightness.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Artglass WW AR offers the brightest image, but there is more going on here than just the UV filter. WW stands for water white; it has reduced iron content which decreases the normal color shift and diming that regular glass causes. It is also anti-reflective (AR), meaning more of the light is passing through the glass to the image instead of being bounced away, resulting in the paper being brighter.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The Artglass UV/WW/AR is the same glass with the addition of a UV filter; however, it only blocks 90% of the UV spectrum. This is why it is brighter than the Museum Glass.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Artglass Preservation clear also has a 90% UV filter, but it is not water white or anti-reflective making it the least brightest of the ArtGlass products.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Regular glass does not block significant amounts of UV radiation; however, its iron content causes a blue green filtering effect reducing brightness more than standard acrylic.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Standard acrylic is optically pure, but has more natural UV blocking capability than regular glass. It also has more reflections than AR glass. My guess is reflections are the primary cause of regular acrylic not being as bright as anti-reflective glass with no UV filtering.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The Tru Vue conservation clear glass is not bright at all due to a 99% UV filter and no anti-reflective coating. It is also not water white. The Tru Vue Museum glass demonstrates the strongest evidence of how UV-filters impact papers with high levels of optical brighteners because Museum glass is optically pure and anti-reflective. Still, the warm color cast over the print is obvious, just like it is with the Acrylite OP3. Although OP3 acrylic is also optically pure, it is not anti-reflective like the Museum glass.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Recommendation\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>If you are concerned about print longevity, avoid using inkjet papers with optical brighteners. If you are mostly concerned with bright whites then frame without any glazing or use a glazing that is optically pure and has no additional UV filter such as regular acrylic or water white glass.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Improper framing can make your print look yellow and faded if you are using inkjet paper that contains Optical Brightener Agents (OBAs). The latest, brightest white inkjet papers such as Epson’s Exhibition Fiber paper use OBAs. Optical Brighteners are additives used to make paper look whiter. They may also be called artificial whiteners. These brightener […]\u003C/p>\n","2015-11-11T15:53:35",[187],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":189,"label":190},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/oba-inkjet-paper-framing-glass.jpg","oba inkjet paper framing glass",{"id":192,"title":193,"uri":194,"content":195,"excerpt":196,"date":197,"categories":198,"image":200},"cG9zdDoxNzE3","What Are the Benefits of Acrylic vs Glass for Picture Framing?","/glazing/benefits-of-acrylic-for-picture-framing","\u003Cp>When you picture a traditional picture frame, you likely imagine a wood or metal frame with a solid glass cover. It’s been used by our mothers, grandmothers, and great grandmothers and it surrounds us to this day. Glass certainly has some great characteristics when it comes to displaying and protecting our favorite photos and works of art, but modern technology has produced an alternative that better fits our needs: Acrylic glass.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What is Acrylic Glass for Picture Frames?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Acrylic is a glass alternative that has gained popularity as a framing material. You may know it as Acrylite® or Plexiglas®, which are brands of the same thermoplastic scientifically known as \u003Ca href=\"http://www.plasticseurope.org/what-is-plastic/types-of-plastics-11148/engineering-plastics/pmma.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Polymethyl Methacrylate\u003C/a> (aka PMMA). It’s hard, flexible, lightweight, and even recyclable. Acrylic glass does a great job of providing clarity as well as protection, and that makes it especially beneficial when it comes to showcasing and preserving photographs and artwork.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Downfalls of Glass\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Acrylic glass is a popular framing option for many photographers and artists. Traditional glass, though still a popular option for framing, can be incredibly heavy, which makes larger display pieces a risk. Big or small, all glass comes with the same risks should the art fall. Glass shards can cause damage that can’t be repaired, and this is a big cause for concern when it comes to displaying and preserving original pieces. Many museums and galleries will not use traditional glass in expensive or irreplaceable artwork due to the risk of glass slicing the artwork if the frame is dropped or hit.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>While \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">picture frame glass \u003C/a>is a good option for some projects, it can affect picture quality. Though many people don’t realize it, glass isn’t truly clear—it has a green tint from iron content. This affects the clarity and color perception of art framed behind glass. Unless treated, glass used in frames also allows fading over time caused by damaging UV rays passing through the glass. UV protecting treatments on glass are available but can fade over time since they are applied to the surface of the glass. If preservation and protection is a concern, glass may not be the best option.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Benefits of Acrylic vs Glass for Picture Frames\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Acrylic glass is lightweight and shatter resistant, eliminating the potential for damage during transportation or surprise falls. It’s a great insulator too, decreasing the risk of damage from condensation beneath the frame.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Acrylic is optically superior, naturally without tinting commonly seen in glass. This optical purity makes it a great option for displaying and protecting framed photos and art. Since it is an artificially created glass alternative, special treatment options can be applied to protect against common glass issues, such as light glare and UV penetration. Acrylic glass from framing is available in \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Standard, UV-filtered, Non-Glare, and UV-Non-Glare\u003C/a>, allowing for a full range of aesthetic and protective qualities. Unlike exterior treatments found on glass, these protective features are incorporated into the acrylic product, making it less prone to breakdown over time.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Important Considerations\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Since acrylic is more lightweight and flexible than glass, it can bow over time. It’s also much more vulnerable to scratching than glass, so it’s imperative that acrylic only be cleaned with gentle microfiber clothes. Because of the risk of scratching, this framing option is best used in minimal contact situations. Acrylic glass is also more prone to issues with static, making this the wrong option for charcoal-based art.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>While acrylic glass has greater clarity than traditional framing glass, reduced-iron glass takes optical purity to a higher, albeit more costly, level. Purity can also be affected by a slight yellow tint in UV filter protection and the loss of sharpness in Non-Glare Acrylic Glass.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>When It Works Best\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Acrylic glass is a great option for framing original art pieces because there’s no fear of tears or punctures from broken glass. Larger artwork and photos do especially well with acrylic framing because of the reduced weight risk. Keepsake photos from wedding albums, professional shoots, and special events are also well-paired with acrylic glass as you can opt for UV protection to allow for clarity while reducing the penetration of the sun’s rays.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>When you picture a traditional picture frame, you likely imagine a wood or metal frame with a solid glass cover. It’s been used by our mothers, grandmothers, and great grandmothers and it surrounds us to this day. Glass certainly has some great characteristics when it comes to displaying and protecting our favorite photos and works […]\u003C/p>\n","2015-10-23T12:48:07",[199],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":201,"label":202},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/benefits-of-acrylic-framing.jpg","benefits of acrylic framing",{"id":204,"title":205,"uri":206,"content":207,"excerpt":208,"date":209,"categories":210,"image":212},"cG9zdDoxNjQ1","The Science Behind Artglass","/glazing/the-science-behind-artglass","\n\u003Cp>Glazing is often the last decision you make when you are completing your framing package. And the options—much like the rest of the framing process—are manifold. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Framing and conservation experts often recommend acrylic, which offers both UV protection and anti-reflective coatings; however, acrylic is prone to scratching, builds up static charges, and, to some framing purists, is inferior to traditional glass. \u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Standard clear glass is the most common type of \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/ctg/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic.html\">framing glass\u003C/a>, but it often casts a green tint due to its iron content. UV-filter glass, though protective, can cast a yellow tint.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Compounding the complexity is the fact that Groglass, a manufacturer of high-performing coatings for glass and acrylic, has developed a collection of glass that offers the same, if not better, protection and clarity than any other protective glazing option—and all without any optical distortion or color variations.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wait…what?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Glass, acrylic, UV filters, anti-reflective coatings, green and yellow tints, iron contents, distortion…it’s a lot to take in when all you’re trying to do is put the finishing touch on your frame. Knowing what different types of Artglass we offer is all well and good, but it’s a lot more helpful if you know what’s behind the mumbo-jumbo.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Light Damages Photographs\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When we say “light damages photographs,” it is a somewhat incomplete or incorrect phrase. Light, which is electromagnetic radiation, refers just to the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that we can see. This light does damage photos, but the bigger culprits are ultraviolet and infrared radiation.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When light hits a photograph, the energy is absorbed by the molecules within it. This energy causes the molecules to go through chemical reactions—what those reactions are depend on a variety of factors. Different types of radiation, including visible light, UV, and IR, cause different types of reactions.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/info/how-light-affects-artwork.html\">View our Infographic on How Light Affects Artwork\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>UV radiation\u003C/strong> is the most damaging as it hits the photograph with large amounts of energy in a short period of time. It causes yellowing, embrittlement, and overall disintegration.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>IR radiation\u003C/strong> heats the surface of photographs and causes cracking, lifting, and color changes.\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Visible light\u003C/strong>, though essential to actually see the photographs, isn’t free from blame. It, too, causes fading or yellowing.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The UV Protection\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>As is obvious, protecting photographs from UV light is imperative—that is, if you want your photographs to last for longer than a couple years. There are different ways to filter UV light in framing glass. TruVue, for example, uses a silica-based UV blocking coating with a matte finish that blocks UV light.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Groglass’s Artglass employs UV-blocking, multilayer molecular films—equal to 1/400th of a human hair—to provide UV protection. Artglass UV WW and Artglass Preservation Clear both offer preservation-grade UV protection of over 90%, which is calculated as an average UV-light blocking capability in the 280-380 nm spectral region (i.e. the measurement of the wavelength under which UV light falls, including both UVA and UVB). The difference between the two is that Preservation Clear has a reflection of about 8%, while UV WW has no reflection due to its antireflective coating.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Anti-Reflection\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Glass reflects light. It can be very irritating to have beautiful artwork in your home, but never be able to see it properly due to the glare that is inherent in glass frame glazing—this is why some opt for acrylic.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>However, Groglass and some other glass manufacturers have developed antireflective (AR) optical coatings that reduce reflections and, ultimately, allow for an unhindered view of the artwork. Groglass uses a magnetron vacuum sputtering process (a method of applying very thin films—think on a molecular level!) that deposits the antireflective metal oxide coating as a molecular film that is less than a micron thick.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>It’s so advanced it was originally developed for aerospace applications. This coating is applied to either one or both sides of the glass, and reduces residual reflections to less than 1% and increases the light transmission to 98%—meaning more light is transmitted to allow for a clearer image.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Combination\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>With Artglass, you don’t have to choose between UV protection and antireflection; you can have the best of both worlds. Artglass UV WW (where the “WW” refers to Water White glass, meaning it is made of iron-free silica) has both antireflective and UV blocking properties, meaning your photos are protected—and you’ll be able to see them with little to no glare!\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">See Your Photos Clearly\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you prefer glass over acrylic, then using Artglass offers significant benefits: namely, your artwork won’t suffer a quick fading death from harsh UV light, and you’ll be able to view them without the frustrating effect of reflection. But knowing the science behind why light does what it does makes it easier to choose the right glazing for your artwork.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Glazing is often the last decision you make when you are completing your framing package. And the options—much like the rest of the framing process—are manifold. Framing and conservation experts often recommend acrylic, which offers both UV protection and anti-reflective coatings; however, acrylic is prone to scratching, builds up static charges, and, to some framing […]\u003C/p>\n","2015-06-05T13:23:32",[211],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":213,"label":214},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/science-behind-artglass.jpg","science behind artglass",{"id":216,"title":217,"uri":218,"content":219,"excerpt":220,"date":221,"categories":222,"image":224},"cG9zdDoxMTk3","Introducing Artglass: Professional Art and Collections Deserve a Professional Look","/glazing/about-artglass-and-types","\n\u003Cp>With all the time and effort you put into your creations and collections, don’t you want to display them in the best possible way? Frame Destination now proudly carries Artglass, the same glass used in museum and in the art-display industry worldwide. This glass can be used for many types of mediums, including graphics, watercolors, photographs, archival documents, collectables and other valuables. Artglass will make any item look as though a professional framed it – and will provide the same level of protection.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Artglass?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Artglass is manufactured by GroGlass, a European company that makes coatings not only for art framing but also high-quality electronic displays. Artglass is so high-tech that it was actually originally developed for aerospace applications, but it is also environmentally friendly. There are four different types of Artglass, including:/\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Artglass 99 - UV-Filter\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Artglass AR 70 - Anti-Reflective\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Artglass AR 92 - Anti-Reflective 92% UV-filter\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Artglass AR 99 - Anti-Reflective 99% UV-filter\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Each Artglass product provides different levels of reflection and UV protection – depending on what you’re displaying – and most Artglass types appear virtually invisible. They are touted for being reflection-free, having a variety of UV protection levels, being suitable for outdoor applications, and offering true transparency of color.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which Types of Artglass Does Frame Destination Offer?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Frame Destination now carries:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/tru-vue-conservation-clear-glass.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">UV-Filter Artglass 99 \u003C/a>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/sh/ultravue-uv70-picture-frame-glass.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Artglass 70 Anti-Reflective Water White \u003C/a>\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Artglass 99 UV Anti-Reflective Water White\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Artglass 99 UV Filter\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Artglass 99 with a 99% UV-filter is ideal for preserving keepsakes and artifacts. Want to safeguard the sheet of paper signed by Abraham Lincoln that you found inside the dresser you bought from the thrift store for $5? (Don’t we wish!) Artglass 99 blocks more than 99 percent of harmful indoor and outdoor UV rays, which can cause old documents to quickly fade and discolor./\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Artglass 70 Anti-Reflective Water White\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Whether it’s your super-expensive wedding and engagement photos, or you want to display your own photography, Artglass Anti-Reflective Water White is perfect for picture framing. The glass has no green tint or optical distortions, and it has an anti-reflective coating. It also blocks 70% of harmful UV radiation.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Artglass 92 UV Anti-Reflective Water White\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Just as the name indicates, Artglass UV Anti-Reflective Water White has all of the qualities as Artglass Anti-Reflective Water White with the perk of enhanced protection from ultraviolet rays. This type of Artglass provides 92 percent UV protection.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Should I Use Artglass?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>When displaying your art, it’s important for the viewer to see it exactly as it is, with no color distortion or reflection. If someone wanted to see a reflection of themself, they could just look in a mirror. The specially designed coatings reflect a very low percentage of light, which eliminates reflection. The 2mmthick glass will show every minute detail in your art or framed piece, while still offering protection from harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause discoloration, peeling, and other wear and tear.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sold! Now That I’ve Bought It, How Do I Clean It?\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Nothing is worse than a fingerprint on your frame’s glass. It makes you want to put up a “Do Not Touch” sign like in an art gallery (or hire those people in the navy jackets to make sure no one touches anything). It doesn’t matter if the viewer has busy fingers because Artglass is easy to clean, and you don’t need special cleaning agents. A microfiber wipe or soft cotton cloth lightly sprayed with an ammonia-free household glass cleaner should do the trick. According to the GroGlass website, all you have to do is moisten the cleaning wipe and clean the glass from the top down so the cleaning agent doesn’t dry on the glass.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Artglass allows you to take ownership of your creative endeavors from start to finish. This scratch-resistant, easy-to-clean coating is perfect for DIY framing projects, while still giving your art a professional look. Artglass also does away with the guessing game about which side of the glass to cut, or which side to place on to the medium to avoid having your fingertips muck up the crystal clear glass. The viewer will see your art, photo, or treasured piece exactly as you intended, with nothing blocking the view of your masterpiece.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>With all the time and effort you put into your creations and collections, don’t you want to display them in the best possible way? Frame Destination now proudly carries Artglass, the same glass used in museum and in the art-display industry worldwide. This glass can be used for many types of mediums, including graphics, watercolors, […]\u003C/p>\n","2014-08-14T15:06:27",[223],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":225,"label":226},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/artglass.jpg","artglass",{"id":228,"title":229,"uri":230,"content":231,"excerpt":232,"date":233,"categories":234,"image":236},"cG9zdDoxMTYw","How to Care for Paintings That Aren’t Under Glass","/glazing/care-for-paintings-not-under-glass","\u003Cp>Framing art with a protective glazing (glass or acrylic) is usually a good idea. Printed artwork such as photographs are generally fine with glazing, and the right choice of glass or acrylic, along with a quality picture frame, can help prevent the deterioration of photo paper over time. However, glazing isn’t suitable for all types of art.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Paintings are a different story from printed art. With oil or acrylic paintings, sometimes it is better not to use any glazing, regardless of whether it’s glass or acrylic. Art prints or photographs can usually come in contact with glazing with no risk of harm. But the same isn’t true of painted surfaces, where direct contact with any material — including glass or acrylic glazing — can very quickly damage the surface of the painting by smearing, chipping, or sticking to the paint.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Besides, one of the wonderful qualities of paintings is the textural surface of the painting itself: think heavy brush strokes, spackled-on gesso, or thick paint troweled on with a painting knife. Such details are an integral part of the artwork. Worst-case scenario, glazing can damage the art; best-case scenario, glazing can obscure the painting, creating separation between the viewer and the art.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>For these reasons, when you \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/picture-frames/how-to-frame-canvas-prints\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">frame an acrylic or oil painting\u003C/a>, it’s generally better to avoid glazing. This means you have to take special care of the artwork to keep it in the best possible shape and to avoid damage.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Care of Framed Paintings\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>“\u003Cb>\u003Ci>Look with your eyes, not with your hands.” \u003C/i>\u003C/b>To keep a painting in beautiful condition, make sure that no one touches it with their fingers or any other implements. If you have an occasion such as a dinner party or another event where there will be a sizeable group of people in attendance, you may want to hang a small plaque besides the painting asking people to look but not touch, or even create a clear plastic “shell” that can be temporarily installed over the picture frame. If the gathering is going to be especially crowded or could potentially get rowdy, you may even opt to take the painting down and store it in a safe place.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cb>\u003Ci>Dust and Dirt = Dulling and Damage. \u003C/i>\u003C/b>Dust and dirt can become attached to the surface of a painting, dulling the colors and damaging the artwork. Careful dusting prevents dust from accumulating and sticking to the surface of the paint. A soft artist’s brush is the best tool to use. Look for a flat brush that is about two or three inches wide with soft, springy, gentle bristles. Inspect the painting before dusting.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If there are any chips or cracking paint, it’s not safe to dust the painting because you may further chip the paint and brush it away from the painting. If the surface is intact, very gently dust the painting. A strong light will help you see where there is dust or quickly catch any flaking of the surface paint so you can stop before causing damage.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Where to Hang Paintings\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cb>\u003Ci>Location, location, location. \u003C/i>\u003C/b>The spot you choose to hang a painting can help protect your unglazed artwork. If you have children or pets in your household, hang your painting where they can’t touch or brush up against it. Oil and acrylic paint are both sensitive to temperature (although the specific range of temperatures that affects each is different). Warm temperatures can soften the surface of a painting, making it more susceptible to damage by touch or by collecting dust and dirt in the paint. Avoid hanging paintings near heating vents, fireplaces, or any place that receives a lot of direct sunlight or heat. Also, dust paintings on cooler days to avoid causing brush damage.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Painted artwork can be a wonderful addition to your home, adding charm and vitality that printed artwork cannot match. Although most paintings are not protected by glazing, some careful work and the right location can keep a unique piece of artwork in beautiful shape for many years to come.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Feature image artwork by Artie's Eight Spotlight Artist – \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/blog/arties-eight/megan-rowley-stern-spotlight\">Megan Rowley Stern\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cb>Last Updated May 2, 2023\u003C/b>\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Framing art with a protective glazing (glass or acrylic) is usually a good idea. Printed artwork such as photographs are generally fine with glazing, and the right choice of glass or acrylic, along with a quality picture frame, can help prevent the deterioration of photo paper over time. However, glazing isn’t suitable for all types of […]\u003C/p>\n","2014-06-19T09:24:23",[235],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":237,"label":238},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/1_FD_CareForArtNoGlass-1.jpg","How to Care for Art Not Under Glass",{"id":240,"title":241,"uri":242,"content":243,"excerpt":244,"date":245,"categories":246,"image":248},"cG9zdDo3NzU=","The Benefits of Acrylic Glazing","/glazing/the-benefits-of-acrylic-glazing","\n\u003Cp>When you are starting a framing project, choosing the proper elements may be a little confusing. Framing a prized piece of art requires choosing a frame type – metal, wood or plastic; the matting to protect and showcase your picture and the glazing. You can either elect to use glass or acrylic; both have their benefits and disadvantages. Deciding on the glazing that you use depends on your budget, how and where you’ll be displaying your piece as well as the need for conservation.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Acrylic Is Lighter\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"alignleft\">\u003Cimg width=\"253\" height=\"199\" data-public-id=\"blog/Acrylic-Glazing-Frame-Destination/Acrylic-Glazing-Frame-Destination.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/frame-destination/images/w_253,h_199,c_scale/f_auto,q_auto/v1661443804/blog/Acrylic-Glazing-Frame-Destination/Acrylic-Glazing-Frame-Destination.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Acrylic Glazing Frame Destination\" class=\"wp-post-775 wp-image-776\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"f_auto,q_auto\" data-version=\"1661443804\" data-seo=\"1\" />\u003C/figure>\u003C/div>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic is a resilient material that is less likely to shatter than glass, given the same circumstances. \u003Ca title=\"Acrylic Glazing\" href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/framing-supplies/glass-and-acrylic.html\">Acrylic glazing\u003C/a> is best used in larger format artwork and if shipping will be a concern. If you will be shipping large pieces of artwork, the cost to ship will be cheaper and the trip easier – with less likelihood of breakage, with a picture framed with acrylic glazing. Another consideration is if you artwork will be in an environment with children. Framed artwork with glass can fall and shatter, both the heavy frame and the shards of glass can be dangerous if young children are nearby.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Allows for More Light\u003C/strong>\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic lets in about 10% more light than standard glass, making it clearer and giving better light to view your work. Your artwork will shine with the clarity and radiance that was intended when glazed with acrylic. But with more light comes the greater possibility of damage from sunlight and UV rays.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other Glazing Factors\u003C/h3>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Other glazing factors to consider are UV protection and glare potential and protection. The choice to use the optional UV protection on acrylic matters most if you need to conserve your art piece. A properly protected acrylic glaze should provide about 98% protection from direct sunlight. Another factor is decreasing glare and reflection. Non-glare, which has a single side chemically 'etched' to diffuse light, or anti-reflective, which has an optical coating applied to it. However non-glare glazing reduces the brilliance of your artwork, decreasing the clarity and color with a flatness to the glaze. Anti-reflective coating is more expensive, but the clarity of your work is not affected.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Custom Glazing with Plexiglas®\u003C/strong>\u003Cbr>\u003Cem>Frame Destination\u003C/em>, online retailers of custom framing and acrylic glazing uses Plexiglas® as their provider of choice. You can opt for any profile – size, shape, portrait or landscape orientation or completely custom. Our selection of acrylic glazing ensures that we can meet your framing needs – no matter what they are. We offer this high quality, resilient glazing in standard, Non-glare or UV protected or both.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Ordering your glazing online is easy with \u003Cstrong>Frame Destination’s\u003C/strong> simple process. Please use our \u003Ca title=\"Visual Guide to Glazing\" href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/custom-frames-graphic.html\">visual guide\u003C/a> to help walk you through the process or get further information on your options in acrylic glazing.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Note: as of January 2017 we currently offer Acrylite® brand acrylic.\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>When you are starting a framing project, choosing the proper elements may be a little confusing. Framing a prized piece of art requires choosing a frame type – metal, wood or plastic; the matting to protect and showcase your picture and the glazing. You can either elect to use glass or acrylic; both have their […]\u003C/p>\n","2013-04-02T09:44:48",[247],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":249,"label":250},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Acrylic-Glazing-Frame-Destination.jpg","Acrylic Glazing Frame Destination",{"id":252,"title":253,"uri":254,"content":255,"excerpt":256,"date":257,"categories":258,"image":260},"cG9zdDo1MDc=","Pros and Cons of Acrylic Glazing for Framing","/glazing/pros-and-cons-of-acrylic-for-framing","\n\u003Cp>Acrylic is a type of glazing that can be used in place of glass for picture framing. It is often referred to by the brand name of Plexiglas. While glass picture frame glazing may be traditional, acrylic glazing offers many of the same features (UV-filter, non-glare) as glass with a few added benefits. It also has its own unique draw backs. Here are the pros and cons of framing with acrylic so you can decide if it’s the right framing material for your next project.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Pros of Using Acrylic Glazing\u003C/strong>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>There are several reasons some people prefer to frame with acrylic. Some of the top benefits include:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Shatterproof\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Lighter weight than glass\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>More optically pure than glass (no green tint)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Excellent thermal insulator\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Many of these qualities make acrylic a favorite among galleries as the visuals are better and the light weight allows for easier hanging of large pieces. It’s also a good choice for framed art in high-traffic areas since if it gets bumped or falls it won’t shatter.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Cons of Using Acrylic Glazing\u003C/strong>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic glazing isn’t perfect though. Here are some cons to keep in mind when considering acrylic glazing:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Scratches easily\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Will attract dust due to its static electric properties (though this can be combated with the right \u003Ca href=\"https://www.framedestination.com/prod/s/brillianize-acrylic-cleaner-polish.html\">acrylic glazing cleaner\u003C/a>)\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Susceptible to bowing since it’s not as stiff as glass\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>More expensive than standard glass glazing\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Depending on your needs and the level of frame maintenance you prefer, these cons could be deal breakers in some cases.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Acrylic Glazing Options\u003C/strong>\u003C/h2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Acrylic glazing has emerged as a true alternative to glass glazing, meaning all the same treatment options are available regardless of the material.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Popular acrylic glazing options include:\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>UV Filter – This optically pure glazing blocks 98% of harmful UV rays and has the UV filter mixed into the acrylic so it won’t fade\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Non-Glare – Eliminates glare from natural and artificial light, allowing for better visibility\u003C/li>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>UV/Non-Glare – The best of both worlds\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In the end, one type of glazing isn’t necessarily better than the others. It depends on your individual wants and needs for each framing project.\u003C/p>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>References: “Caring for your art: A guide for artists, collectors, galleries and art institutions” by Jill Snyder.\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n","\u003Cp>Acrylic is a type of glazing that can be used in place of glass for picture framing. It is often referred to by the brand name of Plexiglas. While glass picture frame glazing may be traditional, acrylic glazing offers many of the same features (UV-filter, non-glare) as glass with a few added benefits. It also has […]\u003C/p>\n","2011-01-28T16:29:33",[259],{"name":140,"slug":151},{"url":261,"label":262},"https://frameblog.framedestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/FD-BlogHero_IMG-acrylicpros-generic-1.png","Pros & Cons of Acrylic Glazing for Framing"]