Is it worth reframing an older piece?

We see a lot of older frames come through the workshop. Inherited pieces, bargain finds, artworks that deserved better. The short answer is almost always: yes, reframe it.

What gets outdated in older frames

Three things usually age badly on older frames: the glass, the mat board, and the hanging hardware.

• Glass: old glass often has a yellow tint or greenish cast that dulls the artwork.
• Mat board: pre-2000 mats are often acidic, which bleeds into the artwork and causes yellow staining over decades.
• Hardware: saw-tooth hangers and old cord fail. Modern D-rings and steel wire are safer.

When to reframe vs restore

If the frame itself is beautiful (carved, antique, solid wood), restoration is often better. We repair joins, replace glass and re-matte while keeping the original frame. If the frame is MDF, plastic, cheap pine or showing real wear, a full reframe is usually the call.

What we do on a reframe

1. Carefully remove the artwork, keeping original hinges intact where possible
2. Assess condition of the piece itself (stains, foxing, tears)
3. Select new frame profile, stain, mat and glass with you
4. Re-mount using archival hinges or float mounting
5. Fit new UltraVue or standard glass
6. Install premium D-rings and hanging wire

Typical cost

Most reframes sit in our Gallery Frame tier, starting around $320. It depends entirely on size and glass choice.

A great reframe can make a decades-old piece feel brand new.