Preserving a print or artwork in its original condition is the primary reason for conservation framing. Specially developed materials and techniques are used to ensure the artwork is encased and preserved for future generations. Restoration or repair is carried out by a paper conservator before framing. The print is then hinged along the top edge to the undermount with pH neutral paper 'T' hinges. Artwork must be distanced from the glass using a window mount or spacers.

A suitable mount board with a pH greater than 7.5 is used, most conservators use Cotton Museum board made from 100% virgin cotton fibre, which contains no lignin (lignin is naturally produced in wood and therefore exists in all paper and board products and generates acid as the board ages, showing as a brown mark on the artwork). Conservation glass is used to protect the artwork from damaging UV light, the glass is coated on one side with a UV filtering layer eliminating a high percentage of UV light. Museum glass is the highest quality glass available; it filters UV and reduces surface reflection.

A good quality backboard and gummed tape is used to seal the finished picture, the gummed tape is porous and will allow the paper to 'breath'. Suitable D-rings are attached to the frame for hanging, or security fixings can be supplied.