Conservation & Archival Framing New Zealand specialists

Protecting Artworks & Collectables Through Conservation Framing

At Van Uffelen Gallery & Picture Framing, conservation and archival framing is approached with long-term preservation in mind. These methods are designed to help minimise deterioration caused by light exposure, environmental conditions, unstable materials and handling over time.

Whether framing fine art, historical documents, photographs, textiles, memorabilia or personal heirlooms, we use conservation-focused materials and reversible framing techniques intended to protect the integrity of the original piece wherever possible.

Our conservation framing methods align with internationally recognised framing principles established by organisations such as the Fine Art Trade Guild and the PPFA (Professional Picture Framers Association).

Looking to Protect Something Important?

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What Is Conservation & Archival Framing?

Conservation framing focuses on protecting artworks and collectable items from long-term deterioration while allowing future conservation work to occur without unnecessary damage to the original piece.

Unlike standard decorative framing, conservation framing considers:

Material Stability • Reversibility • Environmental Exposure • Long-Term Preservation • Non-Invasive Mounting Methods • Future Conservation Requirements

The goal is not simply presentation, but preservation.

Why Conservation Framing Matters

Many artworks and collectable items are vulnerable to gradual deterioration caused by environmental exposure and unsuitable framing materials.

Over time this may contribute to:

Fading & Colour Shift • Acid Migration & Staining • Paper Embrittlement • Mould & Moisture Damage • Adhesive Failure • Fabric Deterioration • Discolouration • Warping & Distortion

Even well-presented framing can unintentionally accelerate deterioration if inappropriate materials or mounting methods are used.

Our conservation framing approach aims to minimise these risks through careful material selection, stable framing environments and preservation-focused construction methods.

Conservation Materials & Techniques

Conservation-Grade Materials

Where appropriate, we utilise:

Lignin-Free Matboards • pH-Neutral Mounting Materials • Conservation-Grade Backing Boards • Museum-Grade Substrates • Archival Barrier Materials

These materials are selected to reduce the risk of contamination, acid migration and long-term instability within the framing package.

Reversible & Non-Invasive Mounting

Depending on the artwork or object, this may include:

Archival Hinging • Edge Support Systems • Sink Mounting • Stitched Textile Mounting • Object Supports • Pressure-Free Display Methods

Permanent adhesives and irreversible mounting methods are avoided where conservation standards require reversibility.

Conservation Glazing

Light exposure remains one of the leading causes of artwork deterioration.

We offer a range of UV-filtering glass and acrylic glazing options designed to help reduce UV-related fading, paper discolouration, textile deterioration and environmental exposure.

Anti-glare glazing options may also be incorporated where appropriate to improve viewing clarity while maintaining preservation performance.

Environmental Considerations

The environment in which an artwork is displayed can significantly affect its long-term condition.

Direct sunlight, humidity fluctuations, heat sources, airborne pollutants, moisture and unstable room temperatures can all contribute to gradual deterioration over time.

As part of the conservation framing process, we can provide guidance regarding suitable display environments and long-term care considerations.

Does Every Artwork Need Conservation Framing?

Not necessarily.

Standard decorative framing may prioritise appearance and affordability, while conservation framing places greater emphasis on preservation, stable materials, reversibility and future conservation access.

The most appropriate approach depends on the significance, age, sensitivity and intended lifespan of the item being framed.

Suitable Items For Conservation Framing

Original Artworks • Limited Edition Prints • Photographs • Historical Documents • Maps & Certificates • Textiles & Needlework • Memorabilia • Family Heirlooms • Collectable Items • Culturally Significant Objects • Fragile or Ageing Materials

Each item is assessed individually to determine the most appropriate framing approach.

International Conservation Framing Standards

Our workshop supports internationally recognised framing standards and conservation principles through organisations including the Fine Art Trade Guild and the PPFA (Professional Picture Framers Association).

These umbrella organisations help guide best-practice conservation framing methods, material selection and preservation-focused workmanship throughout the framing industry.

Trusted Since 1985

Since 1985, Van Uffelen Gallery & Picture Framing has helped New Zealand families, collectors, artists, businesses and institutions preserve, protect and display items of significance.

Not Local? We Can Still Help

We regularly work with customers throughout New Zealand using our online framing tool, email consultations, phone and video calls, and repeat project records.

For selected projects, free collection and delivery may be available. We can also arrange courier collection from your address, professionally frame your item in our Palmerston North workshop, and return it anywhere in New Zealand. Availability and conditions may vary depending on the size, location and nature of the project.

We Welcome Your Enquiry

If you would like to discuss conservation framing, archival mounting, preservation-focused glazing or long-term artwork protection, our team is happy to assist.

Whether for private collections, family heirlooms, fine art or historically significant items, we can help guide you through appropriate conservation framing options tailored to the individual requirements of the piece.

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