Our Materials: What Goes Into Your Frame

Customers often ask what goes into their frame. This page answers the questions we hear most. If yours is not here, contact us or call 800-916-8770.

Shadow box backing: hardwood plywood

The plywood backing in our shadow boxes is hardwood plywood. It is not MDF.

It is PureBond® plywood from Columbia Forest Products. The manufacturer confirms that PureBond meets CARB Phase 2 and EPA TSCA Title VI. These are the California and US federal rules that limit formaldehyde from wood panels.

Columbia publishes a compliance certificate for each of its mills, issued by an independent testing lab. You can read them on the manufacturer's site, under "CARB/EPA TSCA Title VI Mill Certificates":

Columbia Forest Products compliance documents

Glazing: acrylic, not glass

Every frame we build uses acrylic in place of glass: standard, non-glare, or none at all. Our glazing guide explains each option.

Mat board

Our mat board guide covers the mat options, from one layer or two to colors and border sizes.

Questions about a material

Ask us before you order. Call 800-916-8770 or send us a message, and we will tell you what goes into your frame.