Float mounting

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lexicraig94

Grumbler in Training
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Jun 15, 2024
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Tampa fl
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Blick art materials
Helllo all. I have a couple pieces that need float mounted, and I’m not quite sure how to tackle them. I have a rug from Dubai- this one is a little thicker and heavier than you would think. For this one I was thinking to use t-pins to “hug” the rug, but even that seems to lack the support I’d like it to give. My next idea was to also implement Velcro to the back of the item/ mat, but that’s not necessarily archival unless there is an archival method of doing so.
The other item is a piece of art made in Thailand out of cow hide. It’s very thin but still heavier than paper. My idea for this was rice starch but I’m not sure how that will fair with all the holes in the piece/ the rice starch. Again, any and all suggestions are appreciated.

I’m going to do some independent research as well, and drop some visuals down in this thread. A big thank you in advance to the community for any insight of any kind!
 

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There is an archival way to attach velcro to a textile if you have access to a sewing machine: https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/conservation-preservation-publications/canadian-conservation-institute-notes/velcro-support-system-textiles.html Velcro Support System for Textiles – Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) Notes 13/4 - Canada.ca

You wouldn't need to use the wooden slat from steps 5 and 6 in a frame, but if you're using adhesive velcro on the mat side I'd back it up with a mechanical attachment like staples.
 
For the rug: sew mount or you might be able to sew a pocket and 'thread' a rod through it. Then shadowbox
For the cowhide: you might be able to do a direct contact overlay with acrylic (not glass). Use a suede mat (might work well with cowhide) which gives it a bit more 'grip'
All depends on the piece itself though
 
You can also hinge the leather piece using Klucel-G and mulberry hinges. Klucel-G's other use is a stabilizer for leather. You will probably have to experiment a bit to find the right weight of hinge. Ylva's right about the rug.
 
Heavy textiles have traditionally been mounted on sloped fabric covered backboards to allow for more even distribution of the weight over the surface, and relying on natural friction of the two fabrics to help support the textile.
Supporting solely from the top (loops and a dowel) puts a lot of stress on the fibers at the point of the loop's contact.
Better to have sewn support throughout the margin and in the field of the piece.
 
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