Picture Framing Backing & Support Materials

Backing and support materials are the components positioned behind artwork inside a picture frame. Although they are usually hidden once the frame is assembled, they can provide important structural support and contribute to the protection of the artwork.

The appropriate backing depends on the type of artwork, mounting method, frame construction, size of the piece, and level of preservation required. Different materials may be used to support the artwork, complete the framing package, or provide an additional protective layer at the back of the frame.

What Are Picture Framing Backing Materials?

Picture framing backing materials are boards or other materials placed behind artwork and its mounting components within a frame.

Depending on the framing design, a backing board may provide rigidity, help support mounted artwork, protect the back of the piece, or help create a stable framing package.

Backing is considered together with mounting, matting, glazing, spacers, and frame construction during the custom picture framing process.

What Does a Backing Board Do?

One of the primary functions of a backing board is to provide support behind the artwork and other framing materials.

Flat works on paper, photographs, documents, prints, and similar pieces may require a rigid support within the frame. Backing materials can help maintain the structure of the framing package and reduce unnecessary movement.

The backing can also create an additional barrier between the artwork and the open back of the frame, helping protect the interior from dust, handling, and contact with surrounding surfaces.

Common Picture Framing Support Materials

Several types of boards and support materials may be used in picture framing. The appropriate material depends on its purpose within the frame and the preservation needs of the artwork.

Matboard

Matboard can serve functions beyond the visible mat surrounding artwork. Appropriate matboard may also be used as a support or backing component within a framing package.

Different grades of matboard are available, including conservation-quality and cotton-based materials. Their composition becomes particularly important when the board is used near artwork requiring long-term preservation. Friedman’s guide to picture framing mats and matboards explains these materials in more detail.

Foam Board

Foam board is a lightweight, rigid board commonly used as a support or backing material in picture framing.

Different grades are available, and the suitability of a particular foam board depends on the framing application. When preservation is important, conservation-quality materials should be considered rather than assuming all foam boards provide the same characteristics.

Rigid Support Boards

Some framing projects require more rigid support than standard matboard or lightweight backing can provide.

Larger pieces, dimensional framing, or heavier materials may require a stronger support board selected specifically for the size, weight, and construction of the frame.

Protective Backing and Dust Covers

The rear of a finished frame may also include a protective covering or dust cover over the back of the framing package.

This outer layer is different from the internal support board. Its purpose is to help close the back of the frame and reduce the entry of dust and debris while giving the finished piece a clean rear surface.

Backing Board vs. Mounting Board

Backing and mounting materials can perform related functions, but the terms do not always describe the same component.

A mounting board is associated with the method used to position or support the artwork. A backing board is generally positioned behind the artwork or mounting assembly to add support and help complete the framing package.

In some framing designs, a board may contribute to both functions. The relationship between the artwork and its support is explained further in Friedman’s guide to artwork mounting methods.

Conservation Backing Materials

When long-term preservation is important, the materials behind the artwork deserve the same consideration as the visible components in front of it.

Original artwork, valuable prints, historic documents, photographs, sentimental pieces, and other preservation-sensitive materials may benefit from conservation-quality boards selected for stability and compatibility with the artwork.

Friedman’s conservation picture framing considers backing and support materials together with mounting, matting, glazing, and other components surrounding the piece.

Why Material Quality Matters

Materials inside a frame can remain close to artwork for many years. Their composition and stability therefore matter, particularly for pieces intended to be preserved over the long term.

Some conventional paper and wood-pulp products can contain components that become acidic as they age. Conservation-grade materials are designed to reduce potential risks associated with unsuitable materials within the framing environment.

The appropriate level of material quality depends on the artwork and the purpose of the framing. A replaceable decorative print and an irreplaceable original work may reasonably require different approaches.

Support for Large and Heavy Framed Pieces

Larger framed pieces place greater demands on the materials used throughout the framing package.

Backing and support materials need sufficient rigidity for the dimensions and weight of the piece without creating unnecessary bulk. The frame itself must also provide adequate depth and structural strength for everything it contains.

These requirements should be considered together rather than selecting the backing independently from the picture frame moulding and materials used to construct the outer frame.

Choosing the Right Backing and Support Materials

The appropriate materials depend on factors such as:

• The type of artwork or object
• The size and weight of the piece
• The mounting method
• The rigidity required
• The depth available within the frame
• The expected display environment
• The level of long-term preservation required

These considerations help determine both the type of support required and whether conservation-quality materials are appropriate for the piece.

Backing as Part of the Complete Framing Package

Backing materials may not be visible from the front of a finished frame, but they remain an important part of its construction.

The backing needs to work with the mounting method, artwork, glazing, mats or spacers, frame depth, and other components to create an appropriate framing package.

At Friedman’s Framing in Savannah, backing and support materials are selected according to the individual piece, its structural requirements, and the level of protection appropriate for the artwork.