HOW DO I FRAME MY
PRINT?
There are a number of methods in which your print
can be mounted and framed. Canvas prints can be mounted using stretcher
bars, Masonite, or like a paper print, by simply adhering to a mat
backing board using ph balanced adhesive or framing tape.
You can avoid the high cost of custom framing by
doing it yourself by using standard size ready made frames and mats
bought from art, hobby, and even discount stores.
First decide if you want to mat your print or just
frame it. Go to Wal-Mart, K-Mart, any arts & craft store like Hobby
Lobby or Ben Franklin, any place that sells ready made frames such as
those produced by Pinnacle or Frame USA.
Method #1:
Framing without a mat
Standard ready made frames can be purchased that
come with a backing board and a glass or plastic panel made to hold art
and documents of these dimensions. Remove the backing board, slip the
print i
n, replace the backing, and basically you're done framing.
Method #2:
Mount, mat and frame
This is a little more involved but makes a
more dramatic presentation.
1. Frames are sold based on the size of the opening
where the glass fits. You want an 16" x 20" frame for your 14"x18’
print. Purchase one that comes with a backing board and glass, some
will even come with a precut mat.
2. Precut mats are sold based on the opening for the
art and the frame size. Your 14” x 18" print has been sized to fit the.
Buy a packaged, precut, single or double mat, whichever you prefer.
3. Purchase a ph balanced adhesive or double stick
mounting tape. You may have to buy this at a craft or art store. Ask
the clerk in the area where they sell the frames and mats to show you
what they carry. There are sprays, brush on type adhesives, tapes, et
cetera. It is best that it say ph balanced, acid free or made
specifically for mounting photos or artwork. I don't recommend rubber
cement even though it says it is suitable for mounting photos because
it often stains when it ages.
4. Remove the backing board from your frame. Lay the
print on the backing board and your mat on top of the print. Make sure
the print is where you want it and that the mat is square on all edges
to the backing board. Carefully lift the mat up and, with a pencil,
make location marks on the backing board at all four corners of the
print. Apply the adhesive or double back tape per the product
instructions, position and bond the print to the backing board using
your alignment marks.
5. Make sure the glass is clean and then reassemble
everything into your frame. The frame probably came with some type of
framing points that hold all the components in place. If not, then you
will need to drive in some small brads or framing/glazing points.