Congratulations, graduate! All those late nights studying, endless cups of coffee, and stressful exams have finally paid off. You've earned your diploma, a testament to your hard work and dedication. But now what? Tossing it in a drawer or leaving it rolled up on a shelf simply won't do. Your diploma deserves to be displayed proudly, a constant reminder of your accomplishment and an inspiration for future endeavors.
Properly framing your diploma not only preserves it from damage caused by dust, moisture, and sunlight, but it also transforms it into a cherished piece of art. It adds a touch of sophistication to your home or office, showcasing your success to visitors and serving as a daily motivator for yourself. Framing your diploma is an investment in preserving your legacy and celebrating your achievements for years to come.
What are the common questions about framing a diploma?
What size frame should I get for my diploma?
You should purchase a frame that precisely matches the dimensions of your diploma. Standard diploma sizes are 8.5x11 inches or 11x14 inches, but it's crucial to measure your diploma to ensure an exact fit. Ordering a frame that is too large will allow the diploma to shift and potentially crease, while a frame that is too small will require you to trim your diploma, which is never recommended.
To ensure a perfect fit, carefully measure the height and width of your diploma using a ruler or measuring tape. Pay attention to the exact dimensions, even fractions of an inch. Once you have the precise measurements, you can confidently search for frames labeled with those specific dimensions. Many frame retailers offer frames specifically designed for diplomas, so searching for "diploma frame [your diploma size]" can be a helpful starting point. Remember to consider the matting when selecting your frame. If you plan to use a mat, which can enhance the presentation and protect the diploma from direct contact with the glass, the overall frame size will need to be larger than the diploma itself. For example, if your diploma is 8.5x11 inches and you want a 2-inch wide mat, you will need a frame with an inside dimension of 12.5x15 inches (8.5 + 2 + 2 = 12.5 and 11 + 2 + 2 = 15). Always verify the mat opening size to ensure it correctly displays your diploma.What type of glass is best to protect my diploma in a frame?
The best type of glass to protect your diploma in a frame is UV-protective glass, specifically either conservation clear glass or museum glass. These options block a significant amount of ultraviolet (UV) light, which is the primary culprit in fading and degrading paper documents over time.
While standard glass provides a basic physical barrier against dust and damage, it offers virtually no protection from UV rays. Over years of exposure, UV light will cause your diploma's ink to fade, the paper to yellow or become brittle, and the overall image to deteriorate. Conservation clear glass filters out a high percentage (typically around 97-99%) of UV light, significantly slowing down this degradation process. Museum glass, the premium option, provides even greater UV protection (often 99%) and boasts an anti-reflective coating that minimizes glare and maximizes clarity, allowing you to view your diploma with exceptional visibility.
When choosing between conservation clear and museum glass, consider the value and importance you place on your diploma, as well as your budget. Conservation clear offers excellent protection at a more affordable price point. If you want the absolute best protection and viewing experience, and are willing to invest more, museum glass is the superior choice. Both options are far better than standard glass and will ensure your diploma remains a cherished keepsake for years to come.
Should I use a mat when framing my diploma?
Yes, you should almost always use a mat when framing your diploma. A mat provides both aesthetic and practical benefits, enhancing the presentation and protecting the document from potential damage.
From an aesthetic perspective, a mat creates visual space between the diploma and the frame, drawing the eye inward and highlighting the document itself. It adds depth and sophistication to the presentation, making your diploma appear more important and distinguished. The color and texture of the mat can be chosen to complement both the diploma and the surrounding decor, creating a cohesive and visually appealing display. Consider a neutral color like off-white, cream, or a light grey for a classic and timeless look. However, be mindful of the diploma's colors, and avoid overly bright or distracting mat colors.
Beyond aesthetics, a mat provides crucial protection for your diploma. It creates a physical barrier between the diploma and the glass, preventing the ink from potentially sticking to the glass over time. This is particularly important for older or fragile diplomas. Furthermore, the mat can help to filter harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of fading and discoloration. Acid-free and lignin-free mats are essential to prevent the mat itself from damaging the diploma over time. These archival-quality mats are designed to protect valuable documents and artwork for generations.
How do I prevent my diploma from fading inside the frame?
The key to preventing diploma fading inside a frame is to minimize exposure to harmful UV light and acidic materials. Use UV-protective glass or acrylic, acid-free matting, and backer boards to create a preservation-friendly environment that blocks damaging light and prevents chemical reactions that degrade the paper and ink.
UV light is the primary culprit behind fading. Standard glass offers minimal UV protection, so investing in UV-filtering glass or acrylic is crucial. Conservation-grade glass filters out a very high percentage (97-99%) of UV rays, providing the best protection. Acrylic is a lighter and shatter-resistant alternative, and UV-filtering options are also readily available. Ensure the glazing you choose is specifically labeled as UV-protective.
Acidic materials in contact with your diploma can also accelerate deterioration. Avoid using regular cardboard or wood pulp-based matting and backer boards. Instead, opt for acid-free and lignin-free alternatives. These materials are chemically stable and won't release acids that can yellow and weaken the paper over time. Look for products labeled as "archival quality" or "museum quality." Finally, consider using archival-quality tape or photo corners if you need to adhere the diploma to the backing, ensuring they won't damage the document over time.
Can I frame my diploma myself, or should I get it professionally done?
You can absolutely frame your diploma yourself if you're comfortable with basic crafting and detail-oriented work, but professional framing offers superior preservation and aesthetic quality, justifying the cost for many.
Professional framing utilizes acid-free materials, which are crucial for the long-term preservation of your diploma. Standard frames from craft stores often contain acidic mats and backings that can cause yellowing and deterioration over time. Professionals also use specialized techniques, like archival mounting, to prevent the diploma from shifting or buckling within the frame. They understand proper sealing techniques to minimize exposure to humidity and environmental pollutants. Ultimately, professional framing protects your valuable document, maintaining its condition for decades to come. However, DIY framing is a perfectly viable option, particularly if you're on a budget or enjoy crafting. To do it right, prioritize archival quality. Purchase an acid-free mat, backing board, and frame specifically designed for documents. Handle your diploma with clean hands or gloves to avoid transferring oils or fingerprints. Take precise measurements to ensure a snug and secure fit within the frame. While DIY framing may not offer the same level of long-term protection as professional work, careful selection of materials and careful assembly can create a presentable display that will last for years.What's the best way to center my diploma in the frame?
The best way to center your diploma in the frame is to use a combination of careful measurement and removable mounting techniques. Start by measuring the inside dimensions of your frame and the dimensions of your diploma. Then, calculate the difference to determine the border space needed on all sides for perfect centering. Use acid-free, archival-quality tape or mounting corners to temporarily secure the diploma to the backing board, allowing for adjustments before permanently sealing the frame.
To achieve accurate centering, it’s crucial to have a stable workspace and proper tools. A ruler or measuring tape with clear markings is essential, and a T-square or right-angle tool can help ensure your diploma is perfectly aligned. Consider using a light table, if available, to see through the backing board and easily visualize the diploma's position. Before applying any adhesive, dry-fit the diploma within the frame to visually confirm that the centering appears correct. This step allows you to make minor adjustments and avoid any potential mistakes. Finally, remember that using acid-free and archival-quality materials is paramount for the preservation of your diploma. Avoid using standard household tape or glues, as these can degrade over time and damage the document. Opt for specialized mounting corners or tapes specifically designed for framing valuable documents. Once you are certain of the diploma's position, securely attach it to the backing board, seal the frame, and enjoy your perfectly centered and preserved accomplishment.How do I hang the framed diploma securely on the wall?
To securely hang your framed diploma, use a picture hanging hook rated for the weight of the framed diploma. Locate a stud in the wall whenever possible for maximum support. If a stud is not available, use drywall anchors appropriate for the weight of the frame.
For optimal security, always weigh your framed diploma using a household scale. Then, purchase a picture hanging hook or anchor rated for *at least* that weight, and preferably a bit higher for a safety margin. Heavier frames, especially those with glass, require heavier-duty hardware. Avoid relying solely on the adhesive-backed hooks unless the diploma frame is exceptionally light, as these can fail over time. When possible, locate a wall stud using a stud finder. Screwing directly into a stud provides the most secure hold. If you cannot locate a stud, drywall anchors are your best bet. There are various types of drywall anchors, including screw-in, self-drilling, and expanding anchors. Choose one specifically designed for the weight you need to support. Follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely for installation. Finally, after hanging the frame, gently test its stability by applying slight pressure to ensure it feels secure before leaving it.And there you have it! Hopefully, you're now well-equipped to give that hard-earned diploma the display it deserves. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back for more helpful tips and tricks to make your house a home!