Elements of a Frame (cont'd)    (Back to Top)

4. Air Space
A space between the art and the glazing in a frame. It should be big enough to ensure the art will not come in contact with the glazing.

5. Art
The art piece itself.

6. Hinge
They are made from Japanese paper and, generally, used with wheat or rice starch paste. Hinges are one type of preservation mounting. They are used to hold the art to the back mat while allowing it to expand and contract with minor changes in temperature and humidity.

7. Back Mat/Mounting Board
A preservation quality mat board on which the art is attached.

8. Filler Board
A board, generally foamboard, used in the back of a frame assembly to occupy a vacant space or provide rigidity.

9. Dust Cover
A final backing material, usually paper, that covers the entire back of a frame to prevent dust from entering the package.

10. Bumper
A small self-adhesive pad, made of rubber, cork or felt that is fixed to the bottom corners of the dust cover or back of the frame to hold the frame away from the wall. In addition to preventing the frame from marring your walls, bumpers provide air circulation important to the preservation of the art. Start