Do you use acid free mats & backing?

Yes — all Frame Amo mats and backing boards are acid-free, lignin-free, and pH-neutral.

We use preservation-safe materials designed to protect photographs, artwork, prints, certificates, and documents from long-term deterioration. Archival-quality components are a standard part of our construction — not an upgrade.

Why Acid-Free Framing Materials Matter

Acidic materials can gradually break down paper-based artwork. Over time, this may cause:

  • Fading of inks and pigments
  • Brittleness or paper degradation
  • Permanent staining around mat openings

Acid-free and lignin-free boards are chemically stable. They do not emit harmful acids or gases into the enclosed environment of the frame, which makes them appropriate for long-term display. For photography, fine art prints, diplomas, or sentimental pieces, using archival framing materials is critical.

What We Use in Our Frames

Acid-Free Matboards
  • Lignin-free and pH-neutral
  • Designed with a standard ½" overlap to properly secure artwork
  • Safe for photographs and paper-based media
Acid-Free Backing Boards
  • Provide stable, pH-neutral structural support
  • Help protect against dust and environmental exposure
  • Often buffered to help neutralize ambient acidity

These materials support professional presentation standards commonly used by photographers, artists, designers, and collectors.

When Archival Materials Are Especially Important

Acid-free mats and backing are strongly recommended for:

  • Original artwork
  • Photography (film or digital prints)
  • Diplomas and certificates
  • Limited edition prints
  • Long-term residential or commercial display
  • Artwork intended for resale or gifting

Non-archival framing materials may appear similar initially but can cause irreversible damage within just a few years.
We build our frames with preservation in mind — because properly displayed artwork should last.


Frame Amo uses acid-free, lignin-free, and pH-neutral matboards and backing boards in all applicable frames. Archival framing materials help prevent yellowing, fading, and long-term deterioration of photographs, artwork, diplomas, and prints. Acid-free framing is essential for preservation-quality display.

Feb 26, 2026

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