Cold mounting: a simple, durable way to frame artwork

What is cold mounting?

Cold mounting is a framing technique in which the artwork or photo is attached to a mount or frame using a dry, double-sided adhesive film. The adhesive film is applied to the artwork or photo and the backing board with a double roller press.

Advantages of cold mounting

Cold mounting offers a number of advantages over other framing techniques, such as:

• Simple: Cold mounting is a simple framing technique that you can carry out yourself.
• Durable: Cold mounting is a durable framing technique that lasts for years.
• Versatile: Cold mounting can be used for a wide range of artworks and photos.
• Irreversible: Cold mounting is an irreversible process: once done, the backing board and the paper can no longer be separated.

The cold mounting process

The cold mounting process consists of the following steps:

1. The artwork or photo is placed on the backing board.
2. The double-sided adhesive film is applied to the artwork or photo and the backing board with a double roller press.
3. The artwork or photo is held in place until the adhesive film has dried.

Backing boards for cold mounting

Cold mounting uses smooth materials such as dibond, aluminium, forex and PVC. These materials are resistant to the adhesive of the double-sided film.

Cost of cold mounting

The price of a cold-mounted piece depends mainly on the backing board you choose. The cost of mounting on dibond, aluminium, forex or PVC is comparable.

Uses of cold mounting

Cold mounting is ideal for photos, promotional print, construction site signs and posters, among other things. Because it is an irreversible process, it is a good choice for prints that can be reprinted.

Tips for cold mounting

• Use a smooth backing board. The backing board should be as smooth as possible so that the adhesive film bonds properly.
• Apply the adhesive film evenly. Make sure the adhesive film is applied evenly to the artwork or photo and the backing board.
• Hold the artwork or photo in place. Use a piece of paper or card to hold the artwork or photo in place until the adhesive film has dried.
• Let the artwork or photo dry completely. Leave the artwork or photo to dry for a few days before hanging it.

Limitations of cold mounting

Cold mounting has a number of limitations, such as:

• It is an irreversible process. The backing board and the paper can no longer be separated.
• It is not suitable for artworks under a lot of tension. If the artwork is under too much tension, the adhesive film may come loose.

Cold mounting is a simple, durable way to frame artwork. It is a good choice for prints that can be reprinted and for artworks under little tension.