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Photos and Frames Photos and Frames From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-129

Figure A

Photos and prints can become stuck to the glass in picture frames (figure A) for a variety of reasons. It's better to take a few precautions beforehand so you don't have to do damage control afterward, and it goes without saying that proper cleaning methods will also help prevent disaters. Below are some suggestions to help you avoid the heartbreak of ruining a favorite photo or art print.

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	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

• Make an easy glass-cleaner with 50 percent rubbing alcohol and 50 percent water. Keep in a labeled spray bottle.

• Spray cleaning cloths with glass-cleaner, wipe the glass and buff dry (figure B). Never spray directly on glass or mirrors to prevent moisture from possibly getting inside the frames, where humidity can ruin the artwork or take the silvering off the back of mirrors.

• Clean frames, glass and mirrors with a damp microfiber cloth. Wring out thoroughly and wipe the glass down, then dry with a glass cloth.

• Mat photos and prints; this helps prevent them from sticking to glass (figure C). The mat also creates a layer of air between the glass and the photo that helps prevent high levels of humidity from building up under the glass.

• Create your own masterpieces at home. Buy unfinished frames and stain them with shoe polish (figure D). Apply as many coats as needed for the desired look. Wipe down and allow to dry. Distress the finish by rubbing in paste polish, then buff part of the polish off the frame.

  Tip: Keep part of your art, prints, photos and paintings stored and rotate them occasionally so you always have something fresh to display. You'll have less clutter in the room, and you'll spend less time cleaning your collections.
  

  ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:
  	Deck the Walls
  	Hanging Pictures
  	Royal Road Trip: Cincinnati Art Museum
  	Photos and Frames