Artist Tape

Artist Tape

Definition: Artist tape is a durable, aggressive adhesive tape commonly used in picture framing and art handling. Its primary application is attaching a mat to a backing board with a book hinge, but it also serves a variety of purposes in art mounting, repair, and presentation. Artist tape is designed to hold firmly yet is generally more forgiving and less damaging than industrial tapes when used on archival surfaces.

Characteristics

• Durability: Provides a secure bond for long-lasting hinges and mounting applications.
• Aggressive Adhesion: Ensures mats and backing boards stay firmly in place.
• Archival Options: Available in acid-free varieties for preservation framing.
• Surface Compatibility: Works with mat boards, foam core, and other framing substrates.

Uses and Applications

• Book Hinge: The most common application, joining a window mat to a backing board in conservation framing.
• Temporary Mounting: Holding artwork in place during layout and fitting.
• Reinforcement: Strengthening weak or delicate hinges or corners.
• General Studio Use: Securing paper to a drawing board or masking off areas for painting.

Best Practices

• Always choose acid-free artist tape when working with valuable or archival artwork.
• Avoid direct application on the artwork surface to prevent adhesive transfer or damage.
• For conservation-level framing, consider alternatives like Tyvek Tape or Japanese paper hinges with wheat paste.

Historical Context

Artist tape evolved from general-purpose adhesive tapes used in bookbinding and archival storage. As preservation standards developed, specialized tapes such as acid-free and conservation-grade artist tapes became integral to professional framing practices.

Related Terms

• Tyvek Tape
• Book Hinge
• P90 Tape
• Sh Tape