How to Mount Artwork on Mat Board?
Ever find yourself wondering how to make your artwork really stand out? Mounting it on a mat board can do wonders! Whether you’re an artist, a collector, or just someone who loves showing off beautiful pieces, knowing how to mount artwork on a mat board is a game-changer. Picture your cherished art prints, framed and perfectly mounted—instantly transforming them into stunning focal points in any room.
Mat boards aren’t just about adding a nice border. They also help protect your artwork and give it that professional touch. If you’re an art lover, you know the magic of a well-mounted piece. It’s amazing how a simple print can turn into a real eye-catcher with just a little bit of matting love.
What Is Mat Board for Artwork and How Does It Work?
Mat boards, also known as mount boards, are essential in the framing process. They are often made from acid-free materials and serve to protect and enhance the appearance of art prints and photographs.
The Role of Mat Boards
Protection: Mat boards prevent direct contact of the artwork with the glass in the picture frame, avoiding condensation and damage. Organizations like Loyal Creative Inc. utilize high-quality, acid-free materials to ensure artwork remains pristine.
Enhancement: They create a visual border that emphasizes the artwork, making it stand out. Experts at Loyal Creative Inc. have an eye for design, ensuring artwork gets the spotlight it deserves.
Stabilization: Mat boards stabilize the artwork, keeping it flat and preventing warping. Partnering with professionals ensures the artwork will remain in mint condition for years to come.
Materials Needed for Mounting Artwork on Mat Board
Mat Board: Options include acid-free mat boards, cotton rag boards, and archival-quality mat boards.
Cutting Tools: Sharp cutting tools like a utility knife or mat cutter.
Tape: So, what tape do you use to tape artwork to a mat? Use acid-free tape and linen tape for photo corners, as well as archival-quality picture corners.
Backing Board: Quality backing boards such as acid-free foam core, gator board, or archival foam core.
Measuring Tools: Rulers, straight-edge, pencil for marking, and a T-square.
Adhesives: Adhesive board or double-sided adhesive sheets (ensure archival quality).
Additional Framing Materials: Conservation framing materials, framing books, and framing packages.
How to Mount Artwork on a Mat Board
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Collect all necessary materials, including a clean, dry mat board, suitable adhesive (such as mounting spray or double-sided tape), and tools for cutting and measuring.
Step 2: Prepare the Mat Board
Measure and cut the mat board to the appropriate size, ensuring a proper border around the artwork. For a window mat, carefully measure and cut the window opening using a ruler and craft knife.
Step 3: Prepare the Artwork
Ensure the artwork is flat and clean. Align the artwork with the back of the mat board or within the window opening to check placement.
Step 4: Mount the Artwork
Apply adhesive to the back of the artwork using mounting spray or double-sided tape. Position the artwork on the mat board, press down gently, and smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles.
Step 5: Finish and Protect
Verify that the artwork is centered and aligned correctly. Trim any excess mat board if needed. If framing, use a glass or acrylic cover to protect the mounted artwork.
Different Methods for Mounting Artwork on Mat Board
Hinge Mounting
T-Hinge Method: Using acid-free tape or linen tape, create T-shaped hinges to attach the artwork's top edge to the back of the mat board, allowing for the paper's natural contraction and expansion.
V-Hinge Method: Similar to the T-Hinge but less visible, the V-Hinge is used for delicate papers like Japanese paper or abaca paper tape.
Corner Mounting
Photo corners or archival-quality picture corners can secure each corner of the artwork. This method is great for inkjet prints, acrylic prints, and original artwork.
Standard Photo Corners: These are adhesive-backed corner pockets used to hold the corners of the artwork. This method is completely reversible, making it ideal for valuable or delicate pieces.
Archival Photo Corners: These are made of acid-free materials, ensuring the artwork is not damaged over time. They're often used for preservation purposes.
Dry Mounting
A dry mounting press adheres the entire back of the artwork to a board with linen tape or adhesive sheets, providing a flat image. Ideal for heavier art paper types.
Float Mounting
Float framing techniques showcase the edges of the artwork by mounting it on a slightly smaller backer board, suitable for textured paper or metal prints.
How to Hang Artwork on Mat Board
1. Prepare the Mat Board
Make sure your mat board is clean and cut to the correct size. The inner opening of the mat should be slightly smaller than your artwork so that the edges overlap and hold the artwork securely.
2. Position the Artwork
Lay your artwork face up on a clean, flat surface.
Position the mat board over your artwork to ensure it fits as desired, leaving equal margins.
Use a ruler to ensure even spacing on all sides, then lightly mark the corners of your artwork on the back of the mat with a pencil.
3. Attach the Artwork
Hinge Mounting (Recommended for Archival Quality):
Cut small pieces of acid-free tape or hinging tape. You’ll need two or more pieces for the top edge of the artwork.
Turn your artwork over. Place the tape at the top of the artwork, half on the artwork and half off. The sticky side should be up.
Flip the artwork back over and align it with the penciled marks on the back of the mat board. Press down on the tape to attach the artwork to the mat. This creates a hinge that holds the artwork securely but allows for minor expansion and contraction due to humidity.
Corners Mounting (Non-Adhesive Option):
If you don’t want to use tape directly on your artwork, you can use photo corners. Simply place the corners on the four edges of your artwork and then align it with the mat board.
4. Secure the Mat and Backing Board
Place a backing board (another piece of mat board or a foam core) behind the artwork and mat board to protect it.
Use acid-free tape to secure the backing board to the mat board, forming a sandwich that holds your artwork in place.
Tips:
Always use acid-free materials to prevent discoloration over time.
Avoid using glue or regular tape, as these can damage the artwork.
For fragile or valuable pieces, consider having the artwork mounted by a professional framer.
What to Consider When Mounting Artwork
Choice of Materials: Ensure longevity by choosing archival and conservation-quality materials, such as acid-free paper, mat boards, and adhesives.
Environmental Conditions: Consider the environment where the artwork will be displayed, including factors like humidity, temperature, and light exposure.
Mounting Techniques: Select the appropriate mounting technique based on the artwork's type and size. Larger pieces may require more robust methods, while delicate ones need gentler techniques.
Clarity of Glass: When framing the mounted artwork, use high-quality glazing material, such as UV-protected glass or acrylic, to prevent fading and damage from sunlight.
Proper Alignment: Ensure the artwork is properly aligned within the mat window, avoiding contact with the adhesive on the front surface.
Need Expert Help to Mount Your Artwork Beautifully? Call Loyal Creative Inc. Today
Mounting artwork might seem challenging, but it can be a satisfying and rewarding experience with the right knowledge and materials. For those aiming for perfection and a professional-grade presentation, consider enlisting expert help.
Loyal Creative Inc. offers exceptional art installation services tailored to individual needs. We utilize high-quality archival materials and have the expertise to ensure the artwork is mounted beautifully and securely.
Call us today to explore our comprehensive art mounting services and bring artwork to life beautifully and securely.