Picture Framing Matboard 101: Beyond “Acid-Free” — What True Conservation Really Means
When it comes to custom framing, matboard isn’t just about color or style — it plays a critical role in protecting your artwork. And despite what many people think, not all matboards offer the same level of protection.
That’s why the Fine Art Trade Guild (FATG) established internationally recognized framing standards. These levels help match artwork with the appropriate materials based on its value, purpose, and longevity.
At Dogwood Framing, we follow these standards closely and proudly use Crescent Brands matboards, making it easy to choose the right level of protection for every project.
Level 1: Museum Quality (Ultimate Protection)
Often referred to as Museum Framing, FATG Level 1 represents the highest standard of conservation. This level is trusted by museums, galleries, and serious collectors who want artwork preserved for generations.
What makes a matboard Level 1?
- 100% cotton throughout for exceptional archival quality
- Naturally acid- and lignin-free, preventing deterioration from the start
- Fade- and bleed-resistant for long-term color stability
Best used for:
- Original works of art
- Historically significant or high-value pieces
- Artwork intended for long-term preservation
Crescent Brands that meet Level 1 standards:
- Crescent RagMat® Museum Solids
- Bainbridge® Alpharag® Artcare®
These boards also pass Oddy testing, an additional standard used by museums to confirm material safety.
Level 2: Conservation Quality (Strong, Long-Term Protection)
FATG Level 2, also known as Conservation Framing, provides excellent long-term protection using conservation-grade materials — without the premium components required for museum-level framing.
What qualifies as Level 2?
- Virgin alpha-cellulose, a purified wood pulp permanently treated to remove acids and lignin
- Chemically stable for long-term preservation
- Fade- and bleed-resistant for dependable color protection
Best used for:
- Limited editions and original artwork of moderate to high value
- Projects where strong protection is important, but museum-level materials aren’t necessary
Crescent Brands that meet Level 2 standards:
- Crescent® Select
- Bainbridge® Alphamat® Artcare®
- Crescent® Royal Moorman® Fabrics
- Bainbridge® Fabrics & Textures
These boards are tested to meet — and often exceed — FATG conservation standards.
Busting the “Acid-Free” Myth
One of the most common misconceptions in framing is the term acid-free. While it sounds protective, it doesn’t always mean true conservation.
Here’s the difference:
- Acid-Free means the board has been chemically treated to neutralize acid at the time of manufacture.
- The problem: Many acid-free boards still contain lignin, which breaks down over time and causes acids to return.
- True conservation boards are purified to remove both acid and lignin, providing lasting protection.
Bottom line:
👉 Acid-free does not automatically mean conservation-grade.
At Dogwood Framing, we believe customers deserve clarity — not confusing labels.
Why Matboard Choice Matters
Choosing the right matboard isn’t just a design decision — it’s a preservation decision. The materials surrounding your artwork directly affect how it ages over time.
By understanding FATG conservation levels and selecting Crescent Brands matboards aligned with those standards, Dogwood Framing can confidently match the right level of protection to every piece of art, photograph, or collectible.
If you’re unsure which level is right for your project, our Certified Picture Framer is always happy to walk you through the options and help you make an informed choice.