Mary has a special interest in Conservation Framing for the long-term preservation of art.  She uses conservation or cotton museum mountboards, which are guaranteed not to turn brown on the bevel around the window and will protect art on paper from acid damage (frequently seen as brown stains) normally associated with standard woodpulp mountboards.  She also uses mounting and framing techniques designed to cause minimal interference to artwork.  The key to conservation framing is to preserve the artwork in its original condition.  This not only keeps the art looking good but also ensures that its value is maintained – much art on paper has been reduced in value by framers using poor framing materials and techniques.

In addition to the usual 2mm float glass and diffused-reflection glass, Mary stocks high UV protection glass to help prevent fading of colours in art on paper.

Applegarth Framing also offers a Cleaning and Restoration service for oils and acrylics on canvas or board, and for works of art on paper.  This is highly specialised work and is carried out by professionally qualified picture conservators.  Although this work can be expensive Mary considers it essential to use qualified conservators as much valuable art has been reduced in value due to inferior cleaning or repairs.  For further information see The Institute of Conservation or The British Association of Paintings Conservator-Restorers.