I've been mounting my prints sandwiched between two pieces of acrilyc. I do not use any kind of glues. However, a few days ago I read a few lines which adviced that prints should not be mounted directly on either acrilyc or glass, that mats have to used. I like the visual effects that is the plastic acheived.

Does anybody know if this is true? I need you advice and more.

Thank you - John

-- C. John Nemaric (foto22@yahoo.com), November 16, 1997

Answers

First, anything mounted touching the acrylic/glass or any other surface will, in time with humidity changes, etc., stick to it. then you have the problems related to shortened life if the materials in close proximity to your prints are not intert, may react with the photo materials and cut the life of the print. If you are not printing to archival standards it doesn't matter. If you are, you are wasting your efforts in using this mounting system. A lot of framers know little of archival material needs of photographic papers. acid free buffered materials are needed for most photo materials along with a separation from the glass/glazing or whatever you have over the face of the print. Acid free NON buffered materials if you are mounting Ilfochrome classic prints. My first guess is that the plastic you use is loaded with PVC that will give off substances that are toxic to your images & will shorten the life of them. Only you can decide if the images warrant full archival treatment from processing to display. But it would be a shame to destroy what you want others to see by less than ideal display techniques.

-- Dan Smith (shooter@brigham.net), November 16, 1997.

framing methods

Your method of display sounds like a rather uncomfortable place for the print to be. I agree with Dan in the problems you are creating. I should add that the only reason for using an overmatt is to keep the print away from the glass or plexi. If the print stays in contact with this material (sometime for just short periods) the print will ferrotype to the material (stick) The print can be removed but will produce an uneven high gloss on the surface of the print.

-- jim megargee (mvjim@interport.net), November 20, 1997.