Business Details
33 Years
experience
Archival Artist Panels & Frames for Durable Artwork
Ampersand Art Supply, founded in 1993 and headquartered in Buda, Texas, is a woman-owned company dedicated to crafting archival-quality surfaces for artists. Our mission centers on empowering artists to create enduring works by developing innovative, superior-quality panels and complementary products. With over 25 years of experience, we specialize in handcrafted Museum Series panels made in the USA using conservator-grade materials and proprietary Archiva-Seal technology, ensuring unparalleled protection against discoloration and degradation. Our product line includes 11 surfaces tailored to diverse mediafrom oils to watercolorand innovative framing solutions like Floaterframes and Duoframes.Sustainability is core to our values, utilizing FSC-certified, renewable Aspen wood fibers and eliminating harmful chemicals in production. Trusted globally, we serve artists through a network of retailers and direct partnerships, emphasizing education via tutorials, workshops, and technical support. Our commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, and artist-centric innovation has solidified our reputation as a leader in the art supply industry.
Services
Artist Panels
Floaterframes
Duoframes
Scratchbord Tools
Custom Panel Calculator
Art Tutorials
Eco-Friendly Products
Framing Solutions
Inks & Accessories
Educational Resources
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 years of expertise in archival art panel innovation.
- Our proprietary Archiva-Seal technology prevents support-induced discoloration.
- Eco-friendly practices use FSC-certified, formaldehyde-free materials.
- All Museum Series panels are handcrafted in the USA with 13-ply birch frames.
- We provide comprehensive educational resources for artists of all levels.
Associations and certifications
- FSC
Services
Artist Panels
Ampersand's Museum Series panels are handcrafted in the USA using archival materials and 13-ply birch frames. Designed for oils, watercolor, and mixed media, they feature Archiva-Seal technology to prevent discoloration. Artists trust these durable surfaces for long-lasting, high-quality creations.
Floaterframes
Custom-designed hardwood frames allow artwork to 'float' within the frame, enhancing visual depth. Available in multiple finishes and depths, they include mounting hardware for easy installation. Ideal for both flat and cradled panels up to 1.5 inches thick.
Duoframes
These innovative frames offer two display options: traditional window mounting or modern float mounting. Crafted from solid wood, they come in black, white, maple, and walnut finishes. Sizes range from 5x7 to 12x12 inches for flexible artistic presentation.
Scratchbord Tools
Specialized tools for scratchboard art include knives, wire brushes, and ink sets. Designed for precision work, these tools enable detailed line work and texture creation. Compatible with Ampersand's Scratchbord panels for intricate monochrome or colored artwork.
Educational Resources
Free online tutorials, videos, and technical guides cover panel preparation, framing techniques, and medium-specific applications. Resources feature professional artists demonstrating best practices for maximizing material performance and creative outcomes.
People
Elaine Salazar
Founder
Elaine co-founded Ampersand in 1993 with a business plan centered on Charles Ewing's Claybord invention. Her art history background and leadership have driven the company's growth into a global leader in archival art surfaces.
Charles Ewing
Inventor
As the creator of Claybord, Charles pioneered Ampersand's core product line. His innovative approach to scratchboard techniques and surface development laid the foundation for the company's diverse panel offerings and technical advancements.
Questions
What makes Ampersand panels archival-quality?
Our panels use conservator-grade materials and Archiva-Seal technology to prevent acidification and discoloration, ensuring artwork longevity.
Are Ampersand products eco-friendly?
Yes, we use FSC-certified Aspen wood fibers and avoid formaldehyde or harmful VOCs in production.
Can I customize panel sizes?
Yes, our online calculator allows custom sizing for Museum Series panels to meet specific project needs.
Do you offer educational resources for artists?
We provide tutorials, videos, and technical guides covering panel preparation, framing, and medium-specific techniques.
What framing options are available?
We offer Floaterframes and Duoframes designed specifically for panels, with hardware included for easy installation.
Are Ampersand panels suitable for all media?
Yes, our 11 surfaces accommodate oils, watercolor, pastels, encaustics, and mixed media with tailored preparation guidance.
Videos