The Framers Forum

Hello Framers Forum
Haven’t been here for a while! I wonder if anyone can help.
I have some very expensive tintype plates to frame for an exhibition, which will be float mounted. I have been in touch with the photographer (who is in the US) to ask how they are normally ‘attached’ and she has replied that they are mounted onto a wooden ‘backing’ frame (rather than foam core) which is then mounted onto board using archival ‘removable’ glue.
If the artwork doesn’t sell, the plates will be returned to the photographer, possibly unframed, so need to be removable.
What type of adhesive would you recommend? I normally use neutral pH adhesive from Lion but am unsure if this would be easily removed? The plates are aluminium I think.

Hi. Mrs. C

A wood mounting board and glue are 2 words that are not consistent with the word "archival".
The best solution for such a project would be a reverse beveled mount opening, holding the tintype plate in place against a backing board. Both being made from 100% cotton board.

Lots of views but only one reply! Take it this is a bit of a tricky one then.

Thanks for your suggestion JFeig, though not sure this would give quite the result that the client wants.

I would be looking to attach the plates to a smaller size piece of museum board, using wheatstarch hinges (or similar archival gum), passed through slots in the board. Then I'd stick the board to a similar small piece of foam-board or wood (if that is what is preferred) with any PVA and further onto the frame back-board.. To remove the plates, simply cut away the mountboard and dissolve the hinges with some water.

I misconstrued your original question. I am now in sync that you are talking about modern versions of tintypes.

If the artist is specifying the brand and type of adhesive to be used, do what they want. Any liability of damage will be the results of her specifications. Make sure that the artist's specifications are noted on all documentation and signed off by the same artist including the disclaimer that the procedure is not done to picture frame industry acceptable standards.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ9zVKKj1kA start at 1:12 into the video

I would not take any risks at all and sink mount them using not alkaline buffered cotton rag mountboard. I understand that there may be versions of cotton boards from Bainbridge which are unbuffered and another version as well. I don't know much about this, but you need to clarify which type you are getting if you a using Bainbridge boards.

My understanding is that all other cotton rag boards are completely 100% cotton and contain no alkaline buffering whatsoever, which I have read is important for tintypes. It may be wise to consider the composition of any other materials, such as backing boards used in framing these as early type of photographs, such as tintypes can be quite sensitive to the chemical environment around them over time.

EVA glue is water reverable. It is recommened by the Guild