| Photographic prints should be mounted so they can be removed from the mount easily, and cannot contact the glass if they are framed. This is done using a window overmat.
Heres How:
1. Prints for mounting should be archivally processed and have a border of reasonable width.
2. For permanence, photographs should be mounted on either museum board or conservation board. Both are either white or off-white.
3. For accurate cutting of mats you will need to use a mat cutter; most cheaper models use a blade in a holder that travels along a specially profiled ruler.
4. Cut 2 sheets of card to the size of the frame (measure this - stated sizes are nominal.)
5. Use a pencil to mark one to the dimensions needed for the cutout window to view the print. Consult the mat cutter instructions for how this needs to be marked.
6. Prints are normally mounted with equal borders left and right, but a larger border below than above. For normal size prints a ratio around 6:5 is suitable.
7. Follow the directions to cut out the bevelled mat. Check it fits the print.
8. Place the window face down and butt a second sheet of card to its top edge. Tape along the length of the join using a suitable acid-free tape to make a hinge.
9. Fold the two sheets along the hinge so that the window is now on top. Slide the print into position and mark its corners with pencil.
10. Attach two short lengths of acid-free tape to the back of the print at the top edge and extending about ¾ inch from it.
11. Put the print in place and tape two short pieces of tape over the two projecting lengths of tape to secure these to the lower sheet of card.
12. The print should now be firmly fixed in position, although it can be lifted up. Check its postion is correct.
13. The print can now be placed in a frame if required.
Tips:
- You can use various gummed tapes for the hinge, but pressure sensitive linen tape or Filmoplast P90 is easier.
- There are many variations on the suggested method, for example using acetate print corners. This makes removal of prints easier, but is less reliable.
- Sharp blades are essential for a clean cut. Some mat cutters dont work well with museum board - ask when you buy. Use a cutting mat when cutting board.
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