What is block mounting?

Block mounting is the process of permanently bonding a photographic or art print onto a rigid backing board — typically smooth MDF — to create a frameless, display-ready piece. The print is sealed face-up onto the board using a cold laminate adhesive, then pressed flat using a cold vacuum press to eliminate any air bubbles, creases, or paper folds. The result is a clean, contemporary display piece with crisp edges and a perfectly flat surface. Block mounts can be hung directly on the wall or displayed on a shelf or easel, making them a versatile and lightweight alternative to traditional picture framing.

What are the benefits of block mounting?

Block mounting offers several advantages over traditional framing:

Contemporary aesthetic — The frameless design keeps all focus on the artwork or photograph itself, without the visual distraction of a frame border. This works particularly well with large format prints, photographic work, and bold graphic artwork.

Lightweight and easy to handle — Block mounts are significantly lighter than framed and glazed artwork of the same size, making them ideal for exhibitions, photography fairs, portfolio presentations, and destinations far from the artist’s studio.

Durable and long-lasting — Our cold laminate adhesive and vacuum pressing process creates a permanent, airtight bond that prevents peeling, bubbling, and moisture damage over time.

Cost-effective — Block mounting is a more affordable display solution than custom framing with glass, making it popular with art and design students, photographers on exhibition budgets, and retailers requiring large-volume display solutions.

Versatile sizes — We produce block mounts in a wide range of sizes from small A6 prints to very large format photographic and art prints. Custom sizes are available on request.

What materials does The Frame & Art Factory use for block mounting?

We use only high-quality materials throughout our block mounting process. The backing board is smooth MDF — a dense, stable material that will not warp or bow over time. Our cold laminate adhesive is an in-house developed formula that creates a permanent, even bond across the full surface of the print with no risk of air pockets or uneven adhesion. The cold vacuum press removes any imperfections during the bonding process, ensuring a perfectly flat result every time. Block mount sides are available in black or white to complement the print and the display environment. Depths are available up to 100mm, allowing for a substantial, gallery-style presentation.

Who is block mounting suitable for?

Photographers — Block mounting is ideal for photographers wishing to display prints at exhibitions, galleries, and art fairs without the weight and cost of traditional framing. The clean, frameless presentation allows the photographic work to speak for itself.

Artists and illustrators — Art prints, illustrations, and graphic artwork are well-suited to block mounting, particularly for portfolio presentations, student exhibitions, and online sales where a lightweight, contemporary display is preferred.

Interior designers and hospitality businesses — Block mounts are widely used in hotel rooms, restaurants, offices, and retail environments where large quantities of display pieces are required at a consistent quality and competitive cost.

Retailers and online stores — Block mounting is a popular product for art print retailers and online stores. We offer white label block mounting services for retailers who want finished products delivered directly to their customers under their own brand.

Art and design students — Block mounting provides a professional, cost-effective display solution for student portfolios, end-of-year exhibitions, and design presentations.

How do I order block mounting from The Frame & Art Factory?

Block mounting orders can be placed in person at our showroom at 297 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town, or by contacting us directly on 021 447 1620 or sales@frameandart.co.za. For trade and wholesale enquiries, contact us to discuss volume pricing and turnaround times. We ship block mounted products to all major cities and towns across South Africa in purpose-designed protective packaging to ensure safe delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between block mounting and framing?

Block mounting bonds a print directly onto a rigid MDF board without a frame or glass, creating a clean, frameless display. Traditional framing places the print inside a frame profile with glass or Perspex protection. Block mounting is lighter, more affordable, and has a more contemporary aesthetic. Framing provides additional protection for the artwork and a more traditional or formal presentation.

Can any print be block mounted?

Most photographic and art prints can be block mounted, including inkjet prints, laser prints, photographic paper prints, and fine art giclée prints. We recommend discussing your specific print type and paper with us before ordering, as some very lightweight or heavily textured papers may require special handling. Prints produced on our in-house Epson SC-P9500 are ideal for block mounting.

What sizes are available for block mounting?

We produce block mounts in a wide range of standard and custom sizes. Standard sizes range from A6 through to A0 and larger. Custom sizes are available on request — contact us with your specific dimensions and we will provide a quote. Depths are available up to 100mm with a choice of black or white sides.

How long does block mounting take?

Standard block mounting orders are typically completed within 3-5 working days. Larger volume orders or custom sizes may require additional time. Contact us on 021 447 1620 or sales@frameandart.co.za to discuss your timeline and we will do our best to accommodate your requirements.

Do you offer block mounting for trade and wholesale clients?

Yes. The Frame & Art Factory offers trade and wholesale pricing for block mounting, with volume discounts for large orders. We also offer white label block mounting services for retailers and online stores who want finished products delivered directly to their end customers. Contact sales@frameandart.co.za to apply for a trade account.

Do you ship block mounts nationwide?

Yes. All block mount orders are packaged in purpose-designed protective packaging and shipped to all major cities and towns across South Africa including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, and George. Contact us for shipping rates and estimated delivery times to your area.