Mounting Art: Shadow Box Style

A shadow box is a display case for three-dimensional items, such as memorabilia, souvenirs, and collections. They can be placed on a table or hung on a wall. When mounting a painting in a shadow box, it is important to consider the weight and material of the painting, as well as the depth of the frame. While there are various ways to mount a painting in a shadow box, such as using glue, double-sided tape, pins, or stitches, it is important to consider the value of the painting and choose a method that will not damage it. For valuable paintings, a reversible method such as using an intermediary mount or hinge mounting may be preferable.

Consider the painting's weight and material

When mounting a painting in a shadow box, it is important to consider the weight and material of the painting. The weight of the painting will determine the type of mounting method you can use. For instance, if the painting is light, you can use poster putty. This involves sticking the putty onto the mounting board at the desired spot and then pressing the painting onto the putty.

If the painting is heavier, you may need to consider a more secure mounting method, such as using a shelf or a combination of Mylar strips, spacers, and clear sewing thread. The material of the painting is also important to consider, as some materials may be more fragile than others and require a gentler approach. For example, pastel paintings are fragile and require special care when mounting to avoid damage. One option for mounting pastel paintings is to use rice starch paste and Japanese paper hinges, which are reversible and won't damage the paper if done by a professional.

Another factor to consider is whether you want the mounting method to be reversible or irreversible. If the painting is valuable and you want to preserve its quality, a reversible method such as hinge mounting is recommended. This allows the painting to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, preventing the fibers from deforming or cracking. However, if the painting is more sentimental than valuable, an irreversible method such as gluing can be used. Keep in mind that gluing may damage the painting when it is removed from the mounting board.

Additionally, the depth of the shadow box frame should be considered to ensure that the painting fits without being crammed inside the box. Custom shadow box frames can be made to accommodate the specific dimensions of the painting if needed. Overall, by taking into account the weight, material, and value of the painting, you can choose the most appropriate mounting method for your shadow box frame.

Choose reversible or irreversible mounting

When mounting a painting in a shadow box, it is important to consider whether to use a reversible or irreversible mounting method. This decision depends on the value and significance of the painting, as well as your personal preferences.

Irreversible mounting methods, such as gluing, involve securing the painting directly onto the mounting board or the backing of the shadow box. While this method provides a strong and secure hold, it is important to note that removing the painting from the shadow box may result in damage to the painting or leftover residue on the backing. This method is suitable for items that are more sentimental than valuable, as it provides a permanent solution.

On the other hand, reversible mounting methods are ideal for preserving the quality of items that may increase in value over time. These methods allow for the safe removal of the painting from the shadow box without causing damage. Examples of reversible mounting techniques include using rice starch paste and Japanese paper hinges, which can be safely removed by a professional.

Additionally, when working with fragile materials such as pastel paintings, it is recommended to avoid adhesives or tape that may damage the artwork. Instead, consider using reversible methods or archival-quality materials that will not cause harm to the painting.

The choice between reversible and irreversible mounting ultimately depends on the specific circumstances and your comfort level with different techniques. It is always recommended to use the least invasive and least risky methods, especially when dealing with valuable or delicate artwork.

By considering the characteristics of the painting, the desired level of security, and the potential for future removal, you can make an informed decision about whether to use a reversible or irreversible mounting method for your painting in a shadow box.

Use glue for irreversible mounting

Gluing is a popular method for mounting items in a shadow box. It is an irreversible mounting method, which means that the item may be torn or have bits of the backing stuck to it when removed. Therefore, it is best suited for mementos that are more sentimental than valuable.

To use glue for irreversible mounting, you need to first decide on the placement of the items in the frame. You can use craft glue or super glue. Mark the spot where you want the item to be, then place some glue on this spot. Hold the item onto the backing for at least 10 seconds to make sure that it is firmly attached to the backing.

For light items, poster putty can also be used. You need to get the right amount of poster putty and stick it onto the mounting board at the desired spot. Then, press the item to be framed to the putty, applying pressure so that the item is attached to the mounting board.

If you have an item that is not easily broken when the shadow box frame is dropped or jostled, you can consider using a shelf. Get a flat piece of wood or metal where the width is less than the depth of the frame. If you are attaching shelving from one end of the frame to the other, you can place nails or screws underneath to support the shelving. If the shelving you are attaching goes midway through the frame, you can glue the sides to the backing and the inner edge of the frame.

Use poster putty for light paintings

Poster putty is a great option for mounting light paintings in a shadow box. It is a safe, clean alternative to other mounting options such as tape, nails, glues, tacks, and staples, which can damage the wall or the artwork.

Poster putty is flexible and customisable, making it ideal for mounting light items on hard surfaces. It is also non-toxic and repositionable, allowing for easy adjustments. Additionally, it does not dry out, making it a long-lasting solution.

When using poster putty, ensure that the surface is clean and dry for the best bond. Determine the desired spot on the mounting board inside the shadow box and apply the right amount of putty. Then, press the painting onto the putty, applying pressure so that it attaches securely to the mounting board.

There are several reliable brands of poster putty available, such as Duck Brand, Loctite, Scotch, and Gorilla. These putties can adhere to a wide range of surfaces, including wood, tile, metal, glass, and more. They are also typically sold in 2-ounce packs, providing ample supply for your mounting needs.

By using poster putty, you can securely mount your light paintings in a shadow box without worrying about damage to your artwork or the mounting surface.

Use pins for certain objects

When mounting objects in a shadow box frame, it is important to consider the weight and material of the items. While glue is a popular option for securing items, it is not always the best choice, especially if the item is porous or fragile. Gluing items can also decrease their value over time, as it may damage the object when you try to remove it.

Using pins is a good option for certain objects, such as toys, children's clothing, or paper. This method involves pushing a pin through the item and into the backboard of the shadow box. The disadvantage of this method is that the pinheads will be visible, but you can use stylized or coloured pins to create an organized and aesthetically pleasing look.

If you are working with a fragile item, such as a painting on paper, you may want to consider hinge mounting. This method allows the object to stay in position while also having the ability to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. This helps prevent the fibres of the paper from deforming or cracking over time.

For heavier items, you can use pins in combination with string to stabilize the item. This method involves crisscrossing the strings in an "X" pattern to provide better support.

Frequently asked questions