{"id":22900,"date":"2023-05-22T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-05-22T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.frameiteasy.com\/learn\/?p=22900"},"modified":"2026-03-03T16:41:03","modified_gmt":"2026-03-03T21:41:03","slug":"guide-to-framing-tape-mounting-adhesive","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.frameiteasy.com\/learn\/guide-to-framing-tape-mounting-adhesive\/","title":{"rendered":"A Comprehensive Guide to Framing Tape & Mounting Adhesive"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Framing tape and mounting adhesive might not be the most glamorous part of custom framing, but they\u2019re some of the most important. The right framing tape keeps your artwork secure, prevents shifting inside the frame, and protects prints and photos from long-term damage. Whether you\u2019re hanging fine art, mounting a poster, or sealing the back of a finished frame, choosing archival, acid-free materials makes all the difference. In this guide, we\u2019ll walk through the types of framing tape and mounting adhesives available, when to use each one, and how to protect your artwork the right way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is framing tape and mounting adhesive?<\/h3>\n
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These two different (yet similar) materials are used in picture framing to secure photos, artwork, and other materials to a frame or mat board. They come in a wide variety of types, sizes, strengths, and textures to suit the different needs and preferences of each framer, environment, or item being framed.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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What are the benefits of using them?<\/h3>\n
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While answers can vary, the most common benefits of using framing tape or adhesive are convenience, ease of use, and the ability to create a crisp and clean professional-looking finish product (without breaking the bank at a custom framing shop!\ud83d\udcb0)<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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What is the best tape for picture framing?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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The best tape for picture framing is acid-free, archival-quality framing tape. Archival tape prevents yellowing, adhesive breakdown, and long-term damage to artwork or photos. For most paper-based art, archival hinging tape is the safest choice.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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Framing Tape & Mounting Adhesive Types<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Double-Sided Tape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many of us are pretty familiar with this tape, it’s the same kind we all wrap presents with, seal envelopes with, and use in common crafting projects. Also called “scotch tape”, it can be used to secure lightweight items like paper or photos. We don’t recommend using long-term<\/strong>, as this tape contains acid and can cause your art to break down over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about the most critical factors to consider when framing: <\/strong>acidic farming materials.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Framer’s Tape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Framing tape or Framer’s tape is much more “tacky” tape than artist’s tape or masking tape – It’s stronger and thinner than linen or paper-based tapes. Bonus: It won’t harm your artwork or mat boards so it’s a great choice for conservation mounting.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Our framer’s tape <\/a>is archival-grade, moisture-proof, and has a non-porous film backing.<\/strong> It’s a long-lasting tape that can be easily and cleanly removed from most surfaces with little to no heat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Mounting Tape or Artist’s Tape <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Similar to double-sided tape, mounting tape is a bit thicker and stronger. This makes it a much more suitable choice for securing heavy items like canvas or poster prints. Unlike scotch tape, it comes in a variety of widths and lengths. It’s important to note that mounting tape can sometimes be referred to as “artist’s tape”.<\/p>\n<\/div>

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Spray Adhesive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This adhesive comes in an aerosol can and sprays out a clean, permanent bond between two surfaces. It’s perfect for mounting flimsy artwork flat to foam boards for more structure. Also known as “Poster Spray”, be wary that it does come with a certain smell. \ud83d\udc43 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Foam Framing Tape<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Similar to the framer’s tape (framing tape) we talked about earlier, this tape is thicker and adds a bit of cushioning and support. It’s ideal for float mounting lightweight works<\/a> like paper art or photos; it makes them appear “fuller” with the extra cushion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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