Bordage
What is it for?
Bordage is a conservation intervention that consists of reinforcing and protecting a canvas’s perimeter by applying a textile or paper border on its edges. This technical operation, although discreet, plays an essential role in preserving painting on canvas.
Bordage allows to:
Consolidate weakened edges of a canvas that have suffered mechanical constraints due to tension
Protect the work’s perimeter
against damage caused by fixing systems (nails, staples)
Facilitate canvas handling du-ring mounting operations on stretcher
Reinforce angles that are particularly stressed during tensioning
Prevent fraying of textile fibers on cut edges
Improve tension distribution
on the entire perimeter
A particular stake for contemporary art
In the field of modern and contemporary art, my specialty at Atelier CROMA, bordage presents specific problematics:
Modern industrial canvases have often more fragile edges than traditional canvases
Large formats characteristic of contemporary art exercise important tensions on borders
Contemporary artworks can present painted edges requiring technical adaptations
Mixed materials frequent in contemporary art impose custom solutions
How I proceed at Atelier CROMA?
As a conservator specialised in modern and contemporary art, I apply a rigorous methodology for bordage, adapted to each artwork:
1. Prior evaluation
Before any intervention, I carry out detailed analysis:
- Examination of current edge condition and identification of weakened zones
- Analysis of canvas weaving to determine most compatible bordage material
- Evaluation of tensions exercised on different perimeter parts
- Identification of specific constraints linked to the artwork particularities (painting to edges, mixed materials, etc.)
- Determination of optimal width of necessary bordage
2. Selection of adapted materials
For modern and contemporary artworks, I carefully choose:
- Compatible textiles or reinforcement paper with original support nature
- Reversible adhesives adapted to contemporary material characteristics
- Specific solutions for artworks presenting technical particularities
3. Bordage techniques adapted to contemporary art
I implement different techniques according to artwork’s specific needs:
- Meticulous edge preparation (cleaning, prior consolidation if necessary)
- Precise cutting of bordage strips to adapted dimensions
- Application of reversible adhesive compatible with constitutive materials
- Careful application with particular attention to angles and junctions
An ecological approach
My environmental approach translates concretely in my bordage approach:
Responsible materials
- Use adhesives with low environmental impact and without toxic emissions
- Select durable products limiting need for future interventions
- Opt for recyclable materials or biodegradable when possible
Respectful techniques
- Precisely dose adhesive quantities to avoid any waste
- Reuse material scraps for other interventions when possible
- Limit use of chemical products by favoring mechanical solutions
Preventive advice
- Propose exhibition and storage recommendations to prolong bordage lifespan
- Raise awareness of importance of stable environment for bordage
conservation - Suggest preventive solutions adapted to specific constraints of each collection
When to consider bordage?
Bordage may be recommended in several situations:
Frayed or weakened edges by repeated handling
Artwork preparation for remounting on stretcher
Preventive reinforcement before exhibition or transport
Localized damage on canvas perimeter
After major structural intervention such as lining
Preventive protection for artworks regularly handled or exhibited
Angle consolidation
particularly stressed by tensions
Why choose Atelier CROMA for bordage of your works?
As a conservator specialized in contemporary art, Zoé Sallin offers you:
Specific expertise in treating modern and contemporary materials
In-depth knowledge of mechanical behaviors of industrial canvases
Innovative solutions adapted to particular problematics of contemporary art
Sensitivity to mixed media works requiring custom approaches
Ecological commitment
guiding material and method choices
Bordage, although often invisible to the viewer, is a fundamental technical intervention that contributes significantly to the artwork’s stability and longevity. At Atelier CROMA, I carry out this delicate operation with greatest care and in absolute respect for your artwork’s integrity.
Ask a personalised estimate
Does your work present fragilities at border level? Do you wish to prepare it for transport or exhibition? Don’t hesitate to contact me for a personalized diagnosis and a quote adapted to your particular situation.