Everybody loves clicking pictures; they are the best form of visual representations of a captured moment and to cherish them lifelong, framing is practiced. They not only form a protective layer around your picture but also beautify it in the process. Picture framing is an intricate task that involves assembling of several components. If you've ever taken a closer look to a frame, you must have noticed there is a thin space between the picture and the glazing. That space is created with the help of a frame spacer. Talking about picture framing, most of the people have heard of terms like matboards and glazing. Frame spacer is something not many people are aware about even though they play an important role in the framing process. This blog focusses on the use and importance of the component.
As the name implies, frame spacers are used to create a definite space between the glazing material and your artwork. It is a tool you'll find in every picture framer's store. If you are going for custom picture framing, then frame spacer is something you should definitely know about. There are a variety of models available in the component, and the generic ones are described below.
Types of Frame spacers
S-Shaped
The spacer holds the artwork and glazing material together forming "S" shape. The closed curve is what holds the backing (art or picture) in its place. An important thing to consider while going for this spacer is thickness of the glass and depth of the rabbet.
Tube-Shaped
Tube-shaped spacer have shape of a rectangular hollow tube. These type of spacers have adhesive on one side which is stuck to either the glazed layer or backing board. The other side, that is the visible portion, can have glossy or matte finish depending on the frame and artwork chosen.
Custom shape
Custom shapes are preferred when any of the above mentioned spacer doesn't fit perfectly for a frame. The best application of a custom frame spacer is in deep shadow box. Popular material prefered for designing this spacer model is foam board.
Importance of Frame Spacers
Prevents wave formation across the paper
With continuous variation in the temperature and humidity of environment around the frame, the glass expands and contracts accordingly. However, there are other sections in the frame which stay unaffected. Due to this imbalance, buckling or waves are formed across the paper. Using a spacer ensures uniform distribution of heat in your picture frame, thus, avoiding creation of bucklings.
Protects artwork from moisture
Frame spacer makes sure the artwork doesn't come in contact with the moisture that is condensed on the glass. Normally, this condensation is observed under extreme temperature changes or when the ink of the artwork is not given sufficient time for drying.
You can design your memories in your own way with the online picture framer like PaintBox Soho. We have years of experience and expertise in the field of picture framing. This is a one-stop solution for all your needs pertaining to custom designed frames, hand-crafted frames, floating frames. Come add color to your artwork with utmost care and precision.
