Block mounting substrates

[WelshFramer]

I've been askied to block mount a print. I'm not keen on sawing up MDF so what are the alternatives?

[prospero]

Probably the most stable is Blockboard, but it would need a lot of filling and sanding to get a smooth edge. You really need a good table saw to get a perfect cuts. Same with Chipboard but the mounting surface would need a lot of smoothing.
If it were a large print I would consider mounting it onto canvas and putting it onto deep stretchers with any staples around the back. Only prob is painting the edges. best way I can think of is to prime the edges of the canvas with a couple of coats of black gesso, to cover the parts that will appear on the edges. Then mount the print and heatseal the entire area of the canvas.

How about mounting/heatsealing the print onto Harboard. Then make a 'frame' the same size out of PAR pine or whatever and gluing the board onto the frame. Prime the frame before attaching the board. when it's all fixed together, sand the edges smooth and finish off with (black?)arcylic paint.


Either way it's a pain.

[WelshFramer]

Sounds like a bit of a pain for a cheap job. I suspect MDF would be easier -- it's just that it cretaes such a dust.

[prospero]

Some people have the idea that block mounting is a cheapo way because you don't have a frame. Actually the job would be a lot less hassle with a 'real' frame. A simple narrow-faced deep moulding would give much the same effect.

Sawing thick MDF is OK if you do it 'out in the shed' with a breathing mask on.

[WelshFramer]

Sawing thick MDF is OK if you do it 'out in the shed' with a breathing mask on.

Well, I had to move the power tools out of the workshop to make room for the heat press and they're now all in the dining room. Maybe I should take this opportunity of sawing up some MDF before the wife make me put everything in the garden shed.