When framing cherished artwork, photographs, or important documents, the choice of matboard is paramount. Opting for archival quality matboard brands is not merely a preference; it is a necessity for long-term preservation. Standard matboards can contain harmful acids and lignins that, over time, can migrate into your valuable pieces, causing irreversible damage such as yellowing, brittleness, and discoloration, commonly known as ‘acid burn’.
Understanding what constitutes archival quality and identifying reputable archival quality matboard brands empowers you to make informed decisions that safeguard your investments. This comprehensive guide will delve into the critical aspects of archival matboards and highlight some of the most trusted names in the industry.
What Defines Archival Quality Matboard?
The term ‘archival quality’ refers to materials that are designed to be stable, durable, and non-damaging over extended periods. For matboards, this means they must meet specific criteria to ensure they do not harm the artwork they protect. These criteria are fundamental to all reputable archival quality matboard brands.
- Acid-Free: The most basic requirement is that the matboard must have a pH level of 7.0 or higher. This prevents acid migration, which is a primary cause of artwork degradation.
- Lignin-Free: Lignin is a natural component of wood pulp that breaks down over time, releasing acids. Archival matboards are processed to remove lignin, ensuring long-term stability.
- Buffered: Many archival matboards are buffered with an alkaline reserve, typically calcium carbonate. This buffering agent helps to neutralize any acids that might be absorbed from the environment or from the artwork itself, providing an added layer of protection.
- Bleed-Resistant: The dyes used in colored matboards must be stable and non-bleeding to prevent them from transferring onto the artwork. Archival quality matboard brands ensure their pigments are lightfast and inert.
- Conservation Grade vs. Museum Grade: These terms often indicate different levels of archival quality. Conservation grade usually refers to acid-free, lignin-free, and buffered matboards, while museum grade typically means 100% cotton rag fiber, inherently acid-free and lignin-free, offering the highest level of protection.
Why Choose Archival Quality Matboard Brands?
Investing in archival quality matboard brands is an investment in the longevity and integrity of your framed items. The benefits extend far beyond mere aesthetics.
Preventing Acid Burn and Fading
The primary reason to opt for archival quality matboard brands is to prevent acid burn. This irreversible damage manifests as yellow or brown stains along the edges of your artwork where it touches the mat. Archival matboards act as a protective barrier, preventing environmental pollutants and inherent acids from compromising your pieces. They also help to slow down the fading process caused by light exposure by maintaining a stable microenvironment around the artwork.
Maintaining Structural Integrity
High-quality archival matboards are typically more rigid and stable than their non-archival counterparts. This structural integrity helps to support the artwork, preventing buckling or creasing within the frame. The robust nature of these materials from top archival quality matboard brands contributes to the overall stability of the framed presentation.
Leading Archival Quality Matboard Brands
Several manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in producing reliable archival quality matboard brands. Their commitment to quality and preservation makes them trusted choices for artists, framers, and collectors alike.
Crescent Cardboard Company
Crescent is one of the most recognized and respected names in the matboard industry. They offer a wide range of archival products, including their Crescent Select line, which is acid-free, lignin-free, and buffered. Their Museum Grade boards are 100% cotton rag, providing the highest level of archival protection. Crescent archival quality matboard brands are known for their consistent quality and extensive color palette.
Bainbridge Matboard
Bainbridge, now part of the Nielsen Bainbridge group, is another prominent manufacturer of archival matboards. Their Alphamat Artcare series is particularly notable for its patented micro-chamber technology, which actively traps and neutralizes pollutants and acids within the matboard itself. This proactive approach to preservation sets Bainbridge archival quality matboard brands apart, offering superior protection against environmental degradation.
Peterboro Matboards
Hailing from Canada, Peterboro Matboards are renowned for their quality and environmental consciousness. They offer a comprehensive range of acid-free, lignin-free, and buffered matboards. Their products are often praised for their vibrant colors and smooth finishes, making them a favorite among those who seek both aesthetic appeal and archival integrity. Peterboro archival quality matboard brands are a strong contender for discerning framers.
Artique
Artique is a popular choice for conservation-grade matboards. Their products are designed to be acid-free and lignin-free, providing excellent protection for a variety of framing needs. Artique matboards offer a good balance of quality and affordability, making archival framing accessible to a broader audience. These archival quality matboard brands are a solid option for everyday conservation.
Rising Museum Board
For the ultimate in archival protection, Rising Museum Board is a top-tier choice. Made from 100% cotton fibers, these boards are inherently acid-free and lignin-free, requiring no chemical buffering. Rising boards are known for their purity, stability, and durability, making them ideal for framing extremely valuable or sensitive works of art. When only the best will do, Rising is among the elite archival quality matboard brands.
Making the Right Choice for Your Project
Selecting the appropriate matboard involves considering several factors beyond just archival quality. While prioritizing archival quality matboard brands is always recommended, your specific project needs will guide your final decision.
- Value of the Artwork: For highly valuable or irreplaceable pieces, always opt for museum-grade, 100% cotton rag matboards from trusted archival quality matboard brands.
- Budget: Conservation-grade matboards offer excellent protection at a more accessible price point than museum-grade options. Determine your budget and select the best archival quality matboard brands within that range.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Consider the color, texture, and thickness of the matboard in relation to the artwork and the frame. Archival quality matboard brands offer a vast array of choices to complement any piece.
- Environmental Conditions: If the artwork will be displayed in an environment with fluctuating temperature or humidity, superior archival protection becomes even more critical.
Conclusion
Choosing the right matboard is a critical step in preserving your artwork for generations to come. By understanding the principles of archival quality and familiarizing yourself with leading archival quality matboard brands, you can make informed decisions that protect your cherished pieces from irreversible damage. Always prioritize acid-free, lignin-free, and buffered options to ensure the longevity and beauty of your framed items. Invest wisely in archival quality matboard brands to safeguard your artistic heritage.