The Framers Forum

Hi,

Just two questions that I hope some of you may be able to with.

Bumpers:
I'm currently using Clear Dome Bumpers (3.8mm) on the backs of frames. Unfortunately they don't seem to want to stay stuck! They leave the workshop staying put, then when the frame is hung on the wall they seem to move about - one day suddenly appearing on the edge of the frame. This has happened on wooden and polymer based mouldings, so I've deduced that it is not necessarily the type of moulding I'm putting them on. I'm hoping I've just had a duff batch - but thought I'd ask around before committing to another order.

Tape for the backs of Frames:
I've started out using Lineco Frame Sealing Tape - the aluminium foil with a blue/grey acid-free paper backing. It claims to bond permanently to wood, metal and board. Thought this would be a cleaner option than going down the wetted gummed tape route. However, it too doesn't seem to want to stay stuck! Again, would love to hear from anyone who has experienced similar.

Thanks
Robyn

Going to be mighty expensive using ally tape for sealing backs. Not to mention time consuming.

I use clear domed bumpers for smaller frames and felt ones for larger frames, can't say I've had your problem, although they are usually not stuck to the frame itself, but to the frame sealing tape; I use the gummed stuff mostly. I also use the not-so-domed clear bumpers on the bottom of frames made to stand - again, no probems (but I don't suppose they'll stay there for ever and ever). Try burnishing on a small square of magic tape and then sticking your bumper to that - and also give that a good press-on with the handle of a pair of pliers or something. 'Self adhesive' things are also pressure-sensitive.

As for the foil tape, that's pretty expensive stuff and should do what it says on the box, try burnishing it on with a bone folder and/or sandpapering the back of plastic frames, or wooden ones that are coated/finished on the back.

Thanks Roboframer.

Really appreciate you sharing your experience. You've given me a few things to try for the bumper problem, to see if I can rectify the issues. In regards to the tape, I had reached the same conclusion as you - it should do what is says on the box. I've tried the burnishing bone already and that didn't seem to have any long term effect. I've dropped a line to the supplier of the tape I'm using and am awaiting a response. Not that I think I'll continue to use the stuff, it's just that I like to understand why something doesn't work.

Thanks again for your advice.

Cheers
Robyn