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Conservation Framing a Diploma

Do-it-yourself Rating: Beginner

Congratulations graduates! With your diploma now in hand and our easy-to-follow conservation framing instructions, you can preserve that hard-earned document for years to come.

When framing documents such as diplomas, preservation is very important. This means using conservation products and procedures throughout the framing process. With this in mind, we suggest using our UV Plexi-glass which filters 98% of harmful ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet rays will fade and discolor your diploma over time. Our Archival Mounting Board’s 100% acid-free properties are specifically engineered for conservation framing as well. Regular mat board is suitable for most framing projects but can, again, over time, leach onto your diploma.

American Frame’s Bainbridge Alphamat Artcare Collection is a 4-ply, 100% acid-free board ideal for the conservation framing of original artwork, photographs, diplomas and other important documents.

When conservation framing, every step has to be consistent with conservation methods. If you use a regular mat board with a UV Pexi-glass, for example, you will put your diploma at risk of deterioration.

For more on Conservation Framing click here.

Still need a gift for your graduate? How about an American Frame Gift Certificate to get the graduate started on framing his or her diploma. You can also create a special gift with our Graduate Kit, click here to learn more.

Begin by selecting your mats. Choose the colors of your alma mater or stay with classic creams and whites. Select your frame, measure and you’re all set.

For our project we used Frame 11118 Light Walnut with Brushed Gold Lip. This frame also comes in Cherry with Brushed Gold Lip #11121. Both are on sale this month for 15% off.

Let's Get Started!
STEP 1 Secure the diploma.
Center and hinge your diploma in the window of your bottom mat using Filmoplast P90 archival paper tape. For more on Hinging Techniques click here.
STEP 2 Remove the protective paper from your UV Plexi-glass.
Peel off one side of the protective paper on the UV plexi-glass. Place the exposed side of the plexi-glass down on the mat with your diploma attached. Peel off the remaining paper.
STEP 3 Begin assembly.
Carefully lay the frame facedown on a clean work surface and insert your plexi-glass and mats with the diploma attached. Place your archival mounting board (foam core) into the frame. Using your screwdriver, install spring clips to the frame to hold everything in place. (For our example we used a point driver to secure everything in place because it is easy to use.)
STEP 4 Apply the dust cover.
Apply a dust cover by putting adhesive transfer tape on the back of the frame and placing Kraft paper onto it. Using the dust cover trimmer, carefully trim off excess paper. To tighten the paper backing, use a spray bottle to mist water on the dust cover and let it dry for a few minutes.
STEP 5 Finishing touches.
Secure the hanging hardware and you are ready to enjoy your conservation framed diploma with pride.

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