advice on framing a pencil portrait

Pencil portraits often look best when framed with a mount (called a 'mat' in the US), like this. Mounts are also helpful in conserving drawings. This is because the glass in the frame should ideally never touch the drawing directly and the mount helps to separate the two, discouraging condensation from damaging the paper by causing mould and mildew. A drawing needs an air gap to 'breathe'. A good framer should be able to advise you on a neutral-toned mount colour to complement your artwork.

There are several decorative options available when choosing your mount, such as v-groove bevelling, shaped openings such as ovals, single or double lines bordering the opening, painted edges or double edges created by using two thicknesses of mounting board. You can choose to have a fairly narrow mount, or a quite a wide one, as shown (left). Framing examples

Mounts are sold as either ACID FREE or ACID NEUTRAL and ACID FREE is the option I'd recommend to conserve your drawing. Acid-free mounts have a white core and are sometimes known as 'conservation standard'. Acid-neutral mounts have a slightly cream core and are more likely to discolour.
Mounting card

glass options

Frames are sometimes sold with clear perspex rather than glass. The disadvantage to perspex is that it carries a static charge and will attract dust to it.
If you choose a glass frame, you may prefer to get non-glare or non-reflective glass. This is more expensive than ordinary glass but the etched surface reduces the shine on the glass in bright light which can obscure the drawing.

conservation: the do's and don'ts of looking after a drawing

Do use a mount to separate the drawing from the glass.
Do buy an acid-free mount if you can. All my drawings are supplied on acid-free paper.
Don't touch a drawing with your hands more than absolutely necessary as the oils in your skin can damage it. Wash your hands before handling a drawing even if you think they are clean
Don't hang a drawing in direct, strong sunlight as it may fade, or start to warp from the heat of the sun.
Don't hang it over a source of heat like a radiator or fireplace as this will definitely damage it.
Don't hang a pencil portrait on a newly plastered wall, which will contain damp.

Click here for advice on conserving and framing an oil portrait

BACK TO TOP