Artwork Mounting Methods

Mounting is the method used to position and support artwork inside a frame. The right mounting method helps keep a piece properly aligned, reduces unnecessary movement, and can play an important role in long-term preservation.

Different types of artwork require different approaches. A photograph, watercolor, textile, poster, document, canvas, or three-dimensional object may each need a different mounting method depending on its material, condition, size, value, and how it will be displayed.

What Is Artwork Mounting?

Artwork mounting refers to the way a piece is secured or supported within a custom frame.

The goal is to hold the artwork safely in the correct position without causing unnecessary stress or damage. In some cases, the mounting method is designed to be reversible so the artwork can later be removed from the frame with minimal alteration.

Mounting is one of several decisions made during the custom picture framing process, along with matting, glazing, frame selection, backing, and preservation requirements.

Why Does the Mounting Method Matter?

A framing package needs to do more than make artwork look finished. It also needs to support the piece appropriately.

Poor mounting can allow artwork to shift, buckle, sag, or become distorted over time. Inappropriate adhesives or mounting materials can also create problems that may be difficult or impossible to reverse.

For valuable, original, historic, or sentimental pieces, the mounting method should be considered as part of the overall conservation picture framing approach.

Common Artwork Mounting Methods

There is no single mounting technique that is appropriate for every piece. The method should be selected according to the artwork itself and the purpose of the framing.

Hinge Mounting

Hinge mounting uses small attachment points to secure artwork, typically along an upper edge, while allowing the piece to hang naturally within the frame.

Conservation-quality hinges and appropriate adhesives are commonly used for original works on paper, prints, watercolors, documents, and other pieces where preserving the artwork is important.

Corner Mounting

Corner mounts hold the corners of a piece in position without applying adhesive directly to the artwork.

This approach may be appropriate for certain photographs, documents, prints, or other flat pieces when maintaining reversibility is a priority.

Edge Strips and Support Mounts

Edge strips or similar support systems can hold artwork in place around its perimeter without permanently attaching the entire piece to a backing board.

These methods can be useful when the edges of the artwork need support while still allowing the piece to be removed later.

Dry Mounting

Dry mounting uses heat-activated or pressure-sensitive materials to bond artwork to a backing board.

It can help keep certain posters, reproductions, photographs, or decorative prints flat, but because the process may be permanent or difficult to reverse, it is generally not appropriate for original, valuable, historic, or conservation-sensitive artwork.

Float Mounting

Float mounting displays the artwork with some or all of its edges visible rather than covering the edges with a traditional mat opening.

This technique is often used when the paper itself is part of the visual presentation, such as artwork with deckled edges, handmade paper, or pieces where the full sheet should remain visible.

Object and Dimensional Mounting

Three-dimensional objects require mounting methods designed around their weight, shape, material, and structural strength.

Memorabilia, medals, textiles, sports items, keepsakes, and other objects may require custom supports, stitching, formed mounts, fasteners, or concealed attachment systems to hold them securely while maintaining a clean presentation.

Reversible vs. Permanent Mounting

One of the most important distinctions in artwork mounting is whether the method can be reversed.

A reversible mounting method is intended to allow the artwork to be removed later without permanently altering the piece. This is especially important for original artwork, collectible material, archival documents, limited editions, and other pieces where preservation matters.

Permanent mounting may be suitable for some decorative or replaceable items, but it should be chosen carefully because future removal may not be possible without affecting the artwork.

How Is the Right Mounting Method Chosen?

The appropriate mounting method depends on several factors:

• The type of artwork or object
• Its size and weight
• The condition of the piece
• Whether the edges should remain visible
• Whether the mounting needs to be reversible
• The level of preservation required
• The finished framing design

The mounting method should support the artwork without becoming visually distracting or introducing unnecessary risk.

Mounting Different Types of Artwork

Works on paper often benefit from reversible or minimally invasive mounting methods, while posters and replaceable decorative prints may allow a broader range of options.

Textiles and dimensional objects require support systems designed specifically for their shape and material. Large or unusually heavy pieces may need additional structural support within the frame.

Friedman’s custom picture framing services include framing for original artwork, photographs, textiles, memorabilia, documents, canvases, dimensional objects, and many other types of pieces.

Artwork Mounting as Part of the Complete Framing Package

Mounting should not be treated as a separate decision from the rest of the frame.

The mounting method works together with matting, glazing, backing, spacers, and the frame itself to create a finished presentation that supports and protects the piece appropriately.

At Friedman’s Framing in Savannah, the mounting method is selected according to the artwork, the intended presentation, and the level of preservation appropriate for the piece.