Foam Core, Mount and Lamination

Foam core is used as a backing for artwork when we put a frame together. Foam core is available in different widths and styles.

Humidity and poor storage can cause many types of paper to warp and ripple. Mounting your artwork will remedy that. However, if it's an antique print, or something you wish to resell, we would advise against mounting, as it can devalue the print with dealers. In these instances, we would recommend to use acid-free foam core as a backing.

On posters, open-edition prints, artwork (especially involving wet media such as oils, acryllic, and watercolour) and photos, we recommend mounting to keep them flat. We use two types of heat-activated mounting: Speedmount, which is reversible, and tissue-mounting, which is permanent. We also use cold-mounting Spray Mount on items which may be heat-sensitive. For items needing a heavy-duty rigid mounting and laminating such as large maps, we use Gatorboard, a dense board that has minimal bowing and warping.

Our knowledgeable staff can assist you on this decision.

Lamination is usually recommended for posters and photos that you want to hang without a frame or want to frame without glass. The lamination we use is UV-resistant and non-reflective. Using lamination is permanent, and we would not recommend laminating original artwork and signed & numbered prints.

If you decide to mount and laminate without a visible frame, a support frame is recommended. This is a simple wood frame adhered to the back of the artwork, granting stablity and preventing twisting and bowing of the foamcore.