Polystyrene

Polystyrene

Polystyrene is a lightweight, inexpensive plastic material commonly used in the production of low-grade picture frame mouldings and packaging. While easy to mold and cut, polystyrene has significant limitations for archival framing and long-term durability.

Uses in Art and Framing

• Low-cost frame mouldings for mass-produced or disposable frames.
• Protective packaging for artwork and other fragile items.
• Foam inserts for stabilizing items during shipping.

Properties

• Lightweight and easy to cut or shape.
• Prone to warping, shrinkage, and cracking over time, especially in varying humidity and temperature.
• Weak miter joints when used for framing.
• Non-archival and may release micro-plastics or harmful chemicals during cutting or degradation.
• Rigid yet brittle, making it unsuitable for long-term structural support in frames.

Advantages

• Low cost and easy to manufacture.
• Lightweight for simple shipping and handling.
• Available in a variety of colors and shapes.

Limitations

• Non-archival and chemically unstable; not recommended for conservation framing.
• Prone to mechanical failure (warping, weak joints, breakage).
• Emits micro-plastics and potentially harmful chemicals during cutting or wear.
• Limited aesthetic quality compared to wood or higher-grade moulding materials.

Related Terms

• Primed Canvas
• Unprimed Canvas
• Artist Canvas
• Alpha Cellulose