Stack up the backing, the art, and glass (with the spacers attached) face up on your fitting table. Check for dust and critters. In a wood frame, place the frame down over the entire package then flip it over and fit as usual. In a metal frame, join three sides then slide the whole package in face up. Flip it over and install the fourth side.
Caution!
When framing unmounted paper art, it is not advisable to cover the edge of the art with the spacer as even slight pressure against the art will cause it to buckle! The art will expand and contract with changes in humidity and it must be allowed to move freely in the frame to prevent buckling. The art may also be abraded by the spacer rubbing on the face of the art. A more appropriate method would be to "Float" the art as shown below.
In metal frames, instead of using spring clips, bond strips of foam board or mat board to the edge of the backing to almost fill up the space. If they are tight the art and the backing will buckle! (See below).
In wood frames, don't apply any pressure when installing diamond points, etc. Leave the entire package a little loose to prevent the art and backing from buckling. (See below)
