Beware of Framing from Sports Sellers and Framers not Familiar with Museum Quality Framing
Over the years, people have shown me documents and photographs that have badly discolored images and very light or faded autographs. What was once a valuable signed photograph or document becomes a nearly worthless piece of memorabilia. This doesn't have to happen. After all, why would someone frame an important treasure to proudly display on his or her wall, only to see that the colors of the photo have faded and the important autograph is all but gone? Once deterioration takes hold of your treasure, its impossible to reverse it. Even the best restorers and conservators can repair lost of faded autographs or images. It would be too obvious.
You need to know what materials and workmanship was involved in framing your memorabilia and artifacts. Did you also research their reputation and history?
Not many of us do that when we a) buy sports memorabilia from a source trusting they have used the proper techniques and materials, or b) Assume our local or big box store really knows what is entailed in framing sensitive objects. There is really no point in paying good money to someone to frame your item if they aren't completely familiar with protecting such important pieces of history. Its like paying a car wash to wash your expensive car only to see that they have scratched the paint and damaged the trim.
As a collector and dealer of historical artifacts and manuscripts, I realize as time goes by, many of these pieces will be lost to natural disasters and irresponsible people. Improper framing should not be one of them. Once it is framed, the photograph, artwork or signed item should provide many years of enjoyment without the worry of any deterioration occurring from the framing.
Know your source for sports memorabilia and the quality of framing that was performed on the item(s). Or, if you are getting your item(s) framed, make sure the framer is completely confident in the proper ways and materials to protect it for future enjoyment. The framer should explain his or her methods and materials used on your personal items without hesitation and without grumbling. After all, you are paying good money to have something completed to your satisfaction. They need to explain fully their process without hesitation or stumbling.
If you do detect your framed item is showing any signs of deterioration, try to remove the item from the frame. Better yet, if it was a fairly recent framing job, and you know where you bought the item or had it framed, take it directly to the store and explain the situation to them. They should address it immediately and fix the problem. Again, you paid them to frame and protect your artwork.
This may come off strong, but being a victim of poor framing many years ago (before I entered the industry), I am well aware first hand of the short cuts people take to save time and money. A good framer will never be defensive or come up with excuses. They will proudly perform the task ensuring your complete happiness, satisfaction and knowing they helped to preserve that piece of history.