Book Hinge

Book Hinge

A Book Hinge is a traditional mounting technique in which a mat is attached to a backing board along one edge using archival-quality tape. This hinge allows the mat to open and close like the cover of a book, providing access to the artwork beneath while protecting it from shifting or damage. Book hinging is a widely used method in professional picture framing because it balances accessibility, stability, and preservation.

Purpose and Advantages

• Ease of Access: The hinged mat can be lifted without fully disassembling the frame, making it easier to inspect or replace the artwork.
• Preservation: Archival tapes such as rice paper or mending tissue minimize the risk of acid migration and maintain conservation standards.
• Stability: The mat is held firmly in place while still allowing the artwork to "breathe" in fluctuating environmental conditions.
• Professional Finish: The hinge prevents the mat from shifting during handling or display, keeping the window opening aligned with the artwork.

Technique

To create a book hinge, framers align the mat with the backing board and apply a strip of book hinging tape or other archival tape along the top edge. The tape acts as a flexible binding, holding the two boards together while allowing the mat to be opened repeatedly without tearing or detaching.

Conservation Considerations

When hinging mats in archival framing, framers should always use acid-free, pH-neutral, or Japanese rice paper tapes. Pressure-sensitive or non-archival adhesives may yellow, become brittle, or damage the artwork over time. The choice of hinging material should match the longevity requirements of the piece being framed.

Related Terms

• Rice Paper
• T Hinge
• Mending Tissue
• Book Hinging Tape