Bainbridge Acid Free Matboard
Bainbridge Acid Free Matboard is a professional conservation mat board designed for archival framing, protecting artwork while delivering a clean, gallery-quality presentation. Ideal for artists, framers, and collectors, it solves the problem of long-term preservation by using acid-free, buffered materials that help prevent discolouration and deterioration over time.
Part of the trusted Alphamat Artcare collection, this matboard offers reliable structure and museum-level protection, making it a dependable choice for framing original artwork, prints, and photographs. It’s especially valued in Canadian framing environments where humidity and seasonal changes can impact paper-based works.
- Brand & Line: Bainbridge Alphamat Artcare
- Colours available: Ivory Black (core colour: white)
- Dimensions: 32" x 40"
- Thickness: 4 ply
- Material: Alpha-cellulose
- Acid-Free: Yes
- Buffered: Yes
- Artcare Technology: Yes
- Preservation Quality: 100% conservation grade
[+] The Creative Details: Performance & Feel (Click to Expand)
The Bainbridge Acid Free Matboard is built for conservation framing, using alpha-cellulose fibres that are purified to remove lignin and harmful acids. This matters in real studio practice because it helps protect artwork from yellowing, fading, and long-term chemical damage.
The 4-ply thickness provides a balanced structure—rigid enough for clean bevel cuts while remaining easy to handle for custom matting. The white core creates a crisp, professional edge that enhances contrast around artwork, especially for photography and fine art prints.
Compared to standard mat boards, this conservation-grade option includes Artcare technology, which actively helps reduce pollutants that can affect artwork over time. It’s a clear step up from decorative or non-archival boards when preservation is a priority.
Who it’s for: Professional framers, artists preparing exhibitions, and collectors framing valuable or sentimental work. It’s also suitable for students learning proper archival framing techniques.
When it may not be the best fit: For quick, temporary displays or budget framing, a standard mat board may be more cost-effective. This board is best reserved for work you want to preserve long-term.
Pair with Artique Acid Free Matboard for additional colour options or build a full framing setup with compatible tools and supplies.
[+] Studio Guide: How to Use & Store (Click to Expand)
Application: Cut using a mat cutter to create window mats or backing boards for framed artwork. Ensure clean, sharp blades for precise bevel edges.
Surface Prep: Handle with clean, dry hands or gloves to avoid transferring oils or marks onto the board surface.
Framing Use: Ideal as both a window mat and backing board in conservation framing setups. Works well with archival tapes and mounting corners.
Storage: Store flat in a dry, stable environment to prevent warping. Avoid high humidity or extreme temperature changes, especially in Canadian seasonal conditions.
Handling: Keep edges protected to prevent dents or creasing. Store sheets in protective sleeves or flat files when possible.
Safety: Use caution when cutting with sharp tools. Keep out of reach of children when cutting or handling tools.
[+] Artist FAQs: Your Questions Answered (Click to Expand)
What does acid-free matboard mean?
It means the board is made without harmful acids that can damage artwork over time. This helps preserve colour and paper integrity.
Is this matboard suitable for professional framing?
Yes. It is a conservation-grade board designed for archival and gallery use.
What is alpha-cellulose?
Alpha-cellulose is a purified wood pulp with removed impurities like lignin. This makes it stable and suitable for long-term preservation.
Can beginners use this matboard?
Yes. It’s easy to cut with the right tools and is a great introduction to archival framing practices.
What does 4-ply mean?
It refers to the thickness of the board. 4-ply is a standard thickness for most framing applications.
Is this the same as museum board?
It offers conservation quality but may differ from cotton rag museum board. Museum board is typically 100% cotton, while this uses alpha-cellulose.
How should I store matboard in Canada’s climate?
Keep it flat in a dry, temperature-stable space. Avoid basements or areas with high humidity.
Is matboard the same as mat board or mount board?
Yes. These are different terms for the same product, including US spelling “mat board.”