Ask RiotACT: Recommendations for framing an old map?

Buy your frames from IKEA and do it yourself. Couldn’t be easier.

Thanks for all the suggestions. Will follow these up.

45/90 Framing and Gallery in Kingston are who I use, I’m in the process of having them frame 9 antique French architectural prints. Their work is excellent. I spoke to Stephanie there…

If it’s old and valuable, you want cotton back & matting not just acid free. Most important though is UV protection to avoid discoloration, so use perspex rather than glass (which will also protect the map from damage in the event that there’s an accident where glass would have broken). Best value for money for conservation framing is the dude Michael on London Circuit near Uni Ave. I think it’s the City Framing Gallery or something like that. Michael also does great plain timber frames, and won’t let you do silly coloured mats or anything that won’t suit a map. If there’s any mould on the map you need to get that stabilised by a conservator. Art & Archival are your peeps for that.

Second nomination for 4590 in Kingston. Aside from the meticulous work, you can get some amazing custom work. Had delicate silk prints from 1800s Japan framed and the results exceeded all expectations for a great price. Plus if you ask, they give great advice on options for framing. Also have a great range of prints for sale on display in the shop.

Anything big will be fairly expensive if you have it custom framed. There are a number of very good framers in Canberra. I have used Belconnen Picture Framing, Oatley Court, for many years, although not had a lot done recently. Quite a few Belconnen artists have used this framer for some years. They will assist you with choosing an appropriate frame, mount and a quote before you proceed. If it is a valuable map, you need to consider the extra expense of an acid free mount to preserve the paper. It is great to use a local business. If you do have a strict budget, you may want to consider IKEA – they have quite a range of frames and I am pretty sure the full range of sizes is available online if you want to check first.

I would recommend Harper Design for the framing. Nick is a very experienced framer and a fine woodworker who can advise you the best way to frame the map from both a conservation and framing perspective. I have used Nick for the last 12 months and his work is very good. His contact details are nick@harperdesign.com.au

Hey hey. I have a good recommendation for a framer I use. Nicholas does an excellent job and you know it’s helping his arts practice tick along! check out his website or give him a call: 0435416496
http://harperdesign.com.au/

Try http://www.4590.com.au/ in Kingston.