Self adhesive tape, archival for "sealed sandwhich framing"

[Colorix]

Hi, trying to cut down the cost of protective framing, I'm thinking of using a method of making a "sandwich" package of glass, mat, pastel, backing, which is taped together around the edges. This package can then be moved easily from frame to frame, or no frame at all.

So I'm seeking advice on two things:
a) a suitable tape. That is, acid free, and no icky gasses affecting the paper. I'd be especially delighted if I could find the tape in a non-specialist shop. I've been thinking of tape for electric insulation, but that is usually too narrow. Would duct tape be a possiblity?

b) a cutter that can cut the tape on the glass so that it is, say, 2 mm wide and perfectly straight. Such cutters exist, but I have no idea where, or what they're called.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Charlie

[DaveMak]

Hi Charlie...

I don't believe you will find such a suitable tape that is archival in both the tape and the adhesive which would hold the package together for any great length of time. The only truly archival tape made which would be archival in both the tape and the adhesive would be rice paper with either wheat paste, rice starch or methyl cellulose but this would be both impractical and not strong enough to hold the entire package together and would not adhere to the glass. Many so-called archival tapes are actually barrier tapes whereby the tape itself is impervious and will prevent bad stuff from leaching through but the adhesive itself is a no-no to be in contact with the art. You could use Lineco's linen tape with a degree of confidence but even it's adhesive will stain and release over time.

However according to F.A.C.T.S (Fine Art Care & Treatment Standards) any non archival materials should be at least 1" away from the art. Since you are matting the work and I presume that the mat will separate the edge of your paper by further than 1" you should be safe using any tape that fits your need from an appearance standpoint. You shouldn't have to worry about an adhesive out gassing from tape and the tape should be far enough away from the art so as to not pose a threat to anything leaching into the art.

http://www.artfacts.org/about/index.html

I would probably stay away from duct tape or any other industrial tapes. 3M and other manufacturers make vinyl tapes in various colors for repairing vinyl seats and such. I have used them for short term display with no ill effects, but they are stretchy and will give out over time.

Probably my best recommendation would be Lineco's Self Adhesive Frame Sealing Tape # L-387 0151. It is an aluminum barrier tape. Attractive, strong 1 1/4" wide. It comes in a roll 1000" long. Available from many on-line sources.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...ing_Tape_.html

As a professional framer I occasionally seal such a package when fitting into a frame and have used 3M #810 tape. The primary purpose is to seal the package prior to putting into a frame to prevent dirt specs from entering the package during fitting. I wouldn't employ this if framing to the highest archival standards though. In that case I just use a barrier tape on the rabbet of the frame to prevent any leaching of lignins from the wood.

Cutters... not sure. Don't have any real recommendations but you could use a sharp razor blade or X-Acto knife along with a steel ruler or straight edge. Be aware that your glass will score so you would want to keep the front edge at most 1/4" from the edge so that when framed the rabbet would cover the tape and any scoring on the glass.

Using a method of taping the edges to hold the package together should only be considered a short-term solution for displaying, etc. Proper framing should be employed eventually.

[Steve Collins]

I would also recommend frame sealing tape.

Another thought would be to make an inner frame for the package using a narrow simple molding. The idea is to have a complete frame package that you would then insert in any desired outer frame. I have seen this done before. It seems to have been quite popular in the past. I recently cleaned up and scanned a drawing from the late 19th century that used an inner and outer frame in just this way.

Note that the inner frame would show somewhat within the outer frame, so it would be wise to pick a finish that would look good with any outer frame you might use.

[Colorix]

Dave, Steve, thank you so much. You've also solved another question, that about rabbets being of wood with lignin. Sealing tape, yes!

Yes, the biggest problem is that paper and starch doesn't stick to the glass, otherwise it would be a neat solution.

Thank you,

Charlie