Mounting
What is the best way to mount inkjet photographs or prints? There are basically two schools of thought on this:

• Dry Mount the photographic print with a Vacuum Press using acid free mounting tissue and Conservation Acid-Free Mount Board. This keeps the photo perfectly flat. I like to allow a 4" salvage edge on all four sides of the print to protect the edges and as a support for matting. (The matting can always be changed at a later date but the mounted print is permanent on the conservation board).

• Archival Mounting - Archival standards require that the mounting process be fully reversible. The above process of pressing is not reversible. In archival mounting we would use archival corners to hold the print in place on an archival matte board. I would also use hanging tabs made of Japanese paper glued with rice starch glue.

What is the best way? Each has pro's and cons. We may mount a print here in Kansas using the archival method and ship it to a high humidity region and chances are you'll notice some curling and buckling eventually. I print and frame using all Acid Free materials and UV Glass to help ensure longevity. If you order your Fine Art Photographic Print, mounted only, or mounted and framed, we typically use the Dry Vacuum Press Method. If you prefer Archival Mounting, please specify when you order.

Matting
Matting material should be 100% cotton rage to counteract environmental acids and air pollution which may come in contact with the art. Aside from making the artwork look cool, the matt serves as a spacer to keep the paper surface away from the glazing (glass).

Photographs can be finished with a single or double matt. I prefer two matts to one, because it looks more professional and gives the photo added depth. I prefer a 3-4 inch primary matt to give separation from the frame and wall covering. It makes the photo stand our more and not bleed off at the edges. The secondary, or filet matt, can be the same color as the primary matt or an accent color. This secondary color can really make a photo "pop" and set it off. On most of our photo's we use Crescent #1610 White for both matts. This is a rag matt, acid free and looks great. If you require something different, please contact us and we can talk.

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