How to Frame Giclée

Giclée printing is the newest and best method used today in the reproduction printing of fine art, taking the place of lithography. A giclée print, if properly mounted and framed will last many, many years and make a great heirloom to pass down from generation to generation. You can frame giclée yourself and get museum quality prints by following these steps. You will need to make sure that mounted materials are archival quality to ensure preserving your new print.

By using your print as a guide, measure the conservation board and border mat the same size as the print. It is extremely important to use only acid-free materials so the print will not burn from the chemicals that are in other materials.

Cut each piece with the X-acto Knife. Make sure that your cuts are straight and not jagged.

Assemble by laying the mounting board on a flat surface and place the print on top of it. Now lay the border on top of the print followed by the glass that has been cut to size. Giclée prints should never be attached to either the mounting board or the border permanently. It is important that giclée prints have free flowing air around it.

Using the acid-free hinges, attach one hinge in each corner. This method keeps the air flowing around the print, which ensures that the print itself does not deteriorate.

Cut the wine cork in four equal pieces and attach to the back of the mounting board with glue to keep the completed print approximately 1/2-inch from the wall. Attach the picture hook where desired with the hardware that came with the hook. This method also ensures a more even circulation of air around the print.