Antiques, collectables and inherited valuables need to be protected. One method of protection is framing.
'Framing collectables offers full protection from dirt, dust, pollutants and, if they are light sensitive, they can be framed using ultraviolet protective glass, or acrylic sheeting which helps to protect colours,' says Fred Scholle, managing director of framing company Galerie du Monde.
Even three-dimensional objects can be framed, but owners should be aware of the weight and size limits. Scholle says: 'If framed to hang on a wall, make sure the wall is strong enough to support the item.' If framed items are too big to enter the doorway, the company offers framing services in the client's home, but this is a costly option.
The cost of framing depends on the size of an item and the type of frames used. Galerie du Monde has a large collection of frames to choose from.
They range from high quality natural or hand-leafed wood moulded frames, to welded-corner metal frames, acrylic box frames and custom-made ones.
'We can custom design a frame, which means that customers can pick a design of one frame and add a different finish. This can be done most of the time,' Scholle says. The cost also depends on the glazing materials used. This can vary from low-cost glass to ultraviolet protection, acrylic, or museum-grade glazing material, which not only offers protection against ultraviolet rays, but also includes reflection control.
Using a simple frame and ultraviolet protection glass to frame small objects, such as coins or stamps, will cost less than HK$2,000.