Protection and Presentation of Fine Art
Founded in 2010, SE1 Picture Frames is a London-based workshop of experienced artisans dedicated to protecting and presenting fine art.
We provide bespoke solutions for individuals, galleries, museums, and businesses. We handle everything from single artworks to large-scale exhibitions. Our service covers the entire process, from conceptualisation and precision craftsmanship to finishing touches and transportation.
Every project receives careful attention to detail. We work closely with clients to realise creative ideas, whether it’s a simple frame or a complex display cabinet. We carefully examine each work, discuss display preferences, and offer suggestions on the best way to present and protect it.
All framing is carried out to conservation level standards as a minimum. Our skilled team combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. This ensures the highest standards of preservation and presentation for every piece.
Our Central London workshop is fully equipped for a wide range of projects. It is set within a secure gated development with free off-street parking and 24-hour onsite security. Visits are by appointment only. Please book in advance to discuss your framing project.
Some of the brands we’ve worked with…
Our Services
Conservation and Museum Quality Picture Framing
We use the best quality materials and archival techniques to present and protect your work for future generations. Dedicated to the preservation and presentation of fine art.
Archival Digital Printing Services
Our expert printer has over 30 years of experience in traditional photographic and fine art print making. We use state of the art Epsom printers and the highest quality archival papers.
Bespoke Fine Art Display Solutions
Our team has the understanding of a wide variety of materials to realise bespoke ideas and concepts ranging from the fabrication of bookshelves to more complex display cabinets and much more…
Our Frames
SE1 Picture Frames use a wide variety of materials and various traditional and modern finishing techniques. These include hard wood frames, gilded frames, welded metal frames and more…
Canvas Stretching
When stretching a canvas, SE1 Picture Frames use high quality, kiln dried stretchers. From Single, one of canvases to large exhibitions, we have the space, tools and expertise for your project.
Our Standards
Our job is to protect your artwork. We do everything we can to ensure your work will be safe for generations to come. Have a look at some of the methods we employ when taking on your project.
Our Frames, Finishes & Display Solutions
Our Workshop
Our workshop is equipped to handle a wide range of specialist and bespoke projects.
Undertaking small and large projects alike, we cater for artists, designers, galleries, museums, photographers and corporate and private clients. Orders range from single frames to framing works for large exhibitions.
Our Commitment to Preservation
When handling artwork, we use conservation and museum-quality framing methods. These employ materials and techniques that preserve and protect the piece. All methods are reversible, allowing safe removal with minimal damage.
Conservation Level Framing
Paper artworks are sensitive to damp, temperature changes, and light exposure. Improper framing often causes mount burns, foxing, faded pigments, or brittleness. As London conservation framers, we prevent this using top modern materials and techniques.
Museum Level Framing
Our artisans bring years of experience to fragile or high-value works. Museum framing adds highest-grade UV glass, cotton rag mounts, Japanese hinging, moisture-absorbing materials like Artsorb, and foil-lined rebates for humidity control. Contact us for a free consultation.
Address
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
SE1 Picture Frames, Alaska Buildings,
61 Grange Road, London,
SE1 3BH, United Kingdom
Nearest tube: London Bridge, Bermondsey, Borough
Bus: Number 1 and 78.
Free visitor parking available:
Entrance is via Bacon Grove just off Grange road. Enter the Alaska Buildings through the large electric gate. Push buzzer and speak to security to gain access.
Email Address
Phone Numbers
Contact us
We are usually on site but to avoid disappointment and to allow us plenty of time to discuss your project with you, please contact us and book an appointment before you set off.
On arrival please report to security.
Request a Quote
Please be aware that an accurate quote is usually only possible once we have seen the art work and discussed all possibilities with you. Our standard framing is to conservation standards and this will be reflected in the quote unless otherwise specified.
FAQ’s
Conservation framing is a method used to preserve and protect artwork, photographs, and memorabilia in a way that prevents deterioration and damage over time. This technique involves using materials and methods that are acid-free and will not harm the artwork. The goal is to ensure that the framed item can be displayed and enjoyed while minimising the risk of any environmental or physical damage.
Conservation framing is crucial for artwork because it protects the pieces from factors that can lead to deterioration, such as light exposure, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and air pollutants. Artworks, especially those made with sensitive materials like paper, can fade, discolour, or deteriorate if not properly protected. Conservation framing helps in preserving the integrity, appearance, and value of the artwork for future generations.
The materials used in conservation framing include acid-free mats and backing boards, UV-filtering glass or acrylic glazing, and archival-quality adhesives. Acid-free mats prevent yellowing or deterioration of the artwork edges. UV-filtering glass or acrylic protects against harmful ultraviolet rays that can fade colours and degrade materials. Archival-quality adhesives ensure that the artwork can be mounted without causing damage or leaving residues.
Conservation framing prevents damage by creating a protective environment around the artwork. The UV-filtering glazing shields the artwork from harmful sunlight and artificial light. Acid-free materials prevent chemical damage and yellowing. The frame itself provides a physical barrier against dust, insects, and mechanical damage. Additionally, proper sealing techniques in conservation framing help regulate the microenvironment around the artwork, reducing the risk of damage from humidity and temperature changes.