I have recently had a Lightjet Fuji Crystal Archive matt print mounted on aluminium for framing, dimensions 24" x 24". Unfortunately, the mounting on aluminium has introduced a pronounced orange peel texture, which I consider unattractive. Speaking to the framer about it, he says I will not be able to get a mirror flat finish with photographic paper that has been laser printed.
Dear Bernadette
With respect to the framer I would simply say that he is talking rubbish! The only difference as I understand it is that RA4 paper for laser exposure has different reciprocity characteristics to that sold for conventional photographic exposure.
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Does anyone have experience of having their lightjet prints mounted on aluminium and is familiar with this introduction of texture as a result. I want to ascertain whether the process of using aluminium as a mount, 'unavoidably' introduces texture, or whether someone on this list has found a mounter that can get a mirror finish.
The texture that a mount can impart on a print is totally dependent on the surface quality of the mount and the overlay used, unless we are talking about a mount which has too high a moisture content. In this situation the action of the moisture as steam trying to escape will cause damage to the print surface.
Another alternative is whether it might be possible to get better results with mounting another type of digital print i.e. inkjet on an Epson paper?
In case anyone is thinking, why dry mount? Why aluminium? I have been advised that if I use any other process of mounting or hinging my print will warp.
Depends on the stiffness of the aluminium. Applying a veneer, for this is effectively what you are doing by mounting any material to a board or panel causes contraction on the print side of the mount. This is what causes bowing. The same can be seen if you simply paint with enough of a paint thickness. Or you heat one side of the mount material, it puts the heated side in compression and the colder side in tension....result is bowing!
Any thoughts or suggestions?
Use a proper good quality dry mounting press with double strength dry mounting film (not tissue) We have both and might be prepared to part with same for silver!!
Hope this all helps a little.
Cheers
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