Mounting military ribbons to matboard/flag

[Ryan]

Good evening,

In search of guidance for safe way to affix these ribbons on this project? I'm currently considering a small amount of 3M 969 tape on the underside of each.

Thank you

(ribbon layout and edges unfinished )

 

[Bruce Papier]

How are you at sewing? A couple stitches at the top and bottom of each ribbon is the way we always did it. It's time consuming, but it's probably the best way. ATG messes up the ribbons and isn't guaranteed to hold over time. Hopefully, someone has a good method that I didn't think of.

 

[neilframer]

I have done tons of military medals and ribbons over the years..(57 years of framing..)
Sewing is the way to go.
969 tape is the extra sticky ATG tape and it would probably work but it's not really archival.

 

[wpfay]

Since the ribbons are probably synthetic, and relatively easy to replace, I would consider using a microtack tagging gun.
The tags can be easily hidden in the layers so light degradation is less of an issue.
If these were vintage or organic fiber I would sew them down.

 

[Bruce Papier]

That's a good idea, Wally. I knew someone would come up with an easier solution.

 

[Jim Miller]

Yes, Wally's suggestion to use micro-tags is a good one -- especially if you could turn under the frayed ends of the ribbons and insert them totally out of sight.

 

[Rise]

Sewing them with conservation thread. Best way.

 

[Ryan]

Since the ribbons are probably synthetic, and relatively easy to replace, I would consider using a microtack tagging gun.
The tags can be easily hidden in the layers so light degradation is less of an issue.
If these were vintage or organic fiber I would sew them down.

Wally, are the tags a specific length? Meaning fabric and backing board need to match?

 

[wpfay]

Yes. They come in many lengths.
The tools I use are made by Avery.
The system developed for framing is called Attach EZ, but the components are available from other sources as well.
The system works well for decorative items, but sewing with appropriate weight organic thread is preferred in preservation situations.

 

[Mary Beth van der Horst]

I would second sewing, especially if the ends aren't going to be seen anyways. I can always tell where a needle has punctured those ribbons. If float mounting, I've had great results with Klucel G on satin ribbons.

 

[Ryan]

I would second sewing, especially if the ends aren't going to be seen anyways. I can always tell where a needle has punctured those ribbons. If float mounting, I've had great results with Klucel G on satin ribbons.
View attachment 54399

Thanks Mary Beth! That presentation looks excellent!

Did you place a rectangular backing under the ribbons in your picture? How many sew points did you use in each ribbon?