Framing Old Blue Prints

I have a couple of old blue prints, of homes drawn by my Grandfather around 1950. They have been rolled up and stored in a box all these, years and I am going to frame them and hang them in my office.

Will these be subject to fading like the blue line drawings? Should I use glass or plexiglass?

Would I be better off to have them scanned and copied?

Anyone have any experience?

Given 'real' blueprints were never intended to be archival documents, I'd suggest going to a frame shop. They can counsel you on what best to do.

Maybe laminated?

They'll deteriorate faster than your ego when an ugly gal turns you down for a date.

Have them copied.

I think most importantly, keep them out of high temperature areas or direct sunlight. We've got some of my grandpas old stuff framed at our office.

Have them framed with UV protectant glass. A decent sized glass shop should be able to get it.

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I'm glad to hear of the thought of saving / displaying some prints. I love the idea. I have an old architect friend (95) who drew some magnificent plans by hand. I talked to his kids to copy and frame some for their dad,went in one ear and out the other. Keep us posted as to what method worked best for you.

I did some research. Lots of confusing explanations of acid levels in the paper, ultraviolet rays, humidity etc.

I can comprehend your explanation much better!

Cover all bases...

Finally got around to copying the prints and having them framed. A local printer copied them on Tyvek, and they turned out very nice. (I took the photos with my iPhone, and they were laying on the floor, so there is some reflections that sort of distort them. They look better in real life.)

These homes were drawn and built by my Grandfather in the late 40’s or early 50’s. I have them hanging in my office, and they add a nice touch.

Awesome!

Don't know how the hell they even survived. After my concrete guys eat chicken on mine they are toast.


Mike.
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My Grandpa used the same plans in his plat, and mixed things up with different brick/stone, and other details. These were copies of the plans, which never made it to the job site. Not taking away anything from the craftsmen of those days, but after you built the house a few times, you could probably just take a glance at them every now and then.

I shouldn’t talk though, because my plans are pretty torn and tattered by the time I finish the house. No Chicken grease, but some coffee spills.