Mounting and Hinging

We select the mounting method based on the weight, value, and desired aesthetic of your piece.

1. T-Hinge Mounting

• The Method: We use archival, acid-free T-Hinge tape to secure the top of the artwork to the backing board.
• Best For: Light to medium-weight paper, photographs, and posters.
• The Benefit: This is a “gravity-fed” mount that allows the paper to hang naturally. Because only the top is secured, the art can expand and contract without rippling or buckling.

2. V-Hinge (Wet Hinging)

• The Method: Utilizing traditional wet hinging paper, we create a hidden “V” shaped hinge behind the art.
• Best For: Fine art papers and pieces where the edges of the paper are part of the aesthetic.
• The Benefit: The hinges are completely invisible from the front. The wet-applied paper fibers interlock with the artwork’s fibers for a bond that is incredibly strong yet remains 100% reversible.

3. Paste Hinging

• The Method: Using a specialized, pH-neutral hinging paste.
• Best For: High-value investments, historical documents, and fragile antique papers.
• The Benefit: This is the “Gold Standard” of museum conservation. The starch-based paste is organic and contains no harsh chemicals, ensuring no “acid ghosting” or staining occurs over decades of display.

4. Inset Float Mount

• The Method: The artwork is mounted onto a hidden sub-structure of acid-free foamcore, which is slightly smaller than the art itself.
• Best For: Works on heavy paper with “deckled” (torn) edges or contemporary prints.
• The Benefit: This creates a dramatic floating effect, casting a soft shadow behind the art. It gives the piece a three-dimensional presence inside the frame, highlighting the texture of the paper edges.

5. Mat Raised Cover (Box Mount)

• The Method: We build a custom acid-free box structure that raises the window mat away from the artwork.
• Best For: Original paintings with heavy impasto (thick paint), collages, or pieces with significant physical thickness.
• The Benefit: This protects the surface of the art. By raising the mat, we ensure that the glass never touches the artwork, preventing “sticking” or crushing while adding a sophisticated depth to the presentation.

Our Archival Promise

At North Framing Atelier, every mounting choice we make is fully reversible. We believe that a framer’s job is to protect the art for the next generation. We never use permanent glues, standard masking tapes, or acidic sprays that can devalue your collection.

Which mount is right for your art?

Our lead consultant will examine the weight and fiber of your piece to recommend the safest mounting strategy.