DIY mounting/framing of large prints

[Patrick Gauthier]

sooo I have this 36"x46",

152479

and others of similar size, printed on matte vinyl (it was remarkably cheap and stunningly high quality).

I'm trying to avoid paying a lot for framing these beasts.

I've looked at making my own frames, but it's a lot of work and I don't have a workshop (although it still can be done).

I've looked at mounting on foam core (the mounted print would go on the wall without a frame), but am worried about the size of the print being a challenge.

I've also considered partial foam core mounting - just the top and bottom edge to be used as a ledge to hang the print.

Does anyone have any suggestions? I am quite handy, but like I said, I don't have a workshop and have minimal tools.

[Drew Wiley]

Takes a bit of practice, but no different than hanging vinyl wallpaper. Same tools, goop, and technique if you need an affordable option.

[Patrick Gauthier]

that's a great idea Drew, thanks. I just imagined a wallpaper entirely of prints.

[Willie]

For that size forget FomeCor and go with GatorFome. Much stiffer and does not dent easily.

[Drew Wiley]

Depends on the adhesive. If it's waterbased, you need a board with absorbent facing paper, and then have to countermount something to the back of the board too,
to compensate for the warping. Both Daige and Seal make excellent wet mounting adhesives, designed for vacuum presses, though you just use a flat weight too,
after applying them with a CLOSED-CELL foam "weenie" roller (not ordinary bushy paint roller). But you need a premium quality board is you expect a smooth
surface. Gator is a different subject. It is impermeable, so will not respond to water-based adhesives. And it need to be lightly sanded to give it some tooth. A
degree of experimentation is always recommended, so save up your bad prints too, for practice.

[vinny]

foam core won't remain flat over time. gatorboard will and it's easy to work with but costly in comparison.

[Drew Wiley]

There are many types of foam board. Don't confuse the meager cheapo selection at art stores with the breadth of products available from specialty suppliers.

[jon.oman]

Would something like this help: http://robertrodriguezjr.com/2014/12/10/video-tutorial-mounting-prints-onto-gatorfoam-board/

[Drew Wiley]

That thread is basically erroneous. Although Gatorbaord does not employ "acid-free" paper facing, the allegedly noxious ingredients are essentially trapped in
phenolic resin, so can't get into your artwork anyway. If he had read the actual tech sheets he would have discovered that. Merely adding an alkaline buffer to
paper does not necessarily make it safer.