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How to Frame a Photo for an Exhibition Hanging

When mounting a photo print for display in a gallery, you are going to want to ensure that the print looks as good as it possibly can. Patrons who attend gallery exhibitions expect that the images displayed appear in quality mats and frames. When utilized correctly, a good frame and mat can add to the overall value of the print. Your photo needs to be mounted to a mounting board, placed inside a mat and then situated in the frame.

Things You'll Need

Mounting press
Tacking iron

Instructions

- 1
  Turn on the dry-mounting press and allow it warm up. With a tacking iron, tack a piece of mounting paper to an archival mat board; the board should be the same size as the frame. When the picture is mounted to the center of the mat, it will be centered inside the frame. Place the picture onto the mounting paper and then place a sheet of protective paper over the print. Place the board and print inside the mounting press.
- 2
  Close and hold the mounting press in place for two to three minutes; each mounting press is slightly different, so refer to the owner̵7;s manual of the press that you are using for specific times. Remove the mounted print from the press and let it cool.
- 3
  Unpack the frame in which you are mounting the picture. Clean the glass and frame thoroughly to remove any dust. Lay the open frame facedown.
- 4
  Place the mat inside the frame. Place the mounted picture inside the frame. Replace the back of the frame and secure it in place; high-quality frames have small metal tabs that secure the backing.
- 5
  Attach a piece of hanging wire across the back of the frame. Your print is ready to be displayed in the exhibition.

Photography