PMA Question

Hobbes03

SGF, Supreme Grumble Framer
Joined
Dec 4, 2001
Posts
1,727
Loc
Torrington, Connecticut, USA
More and more, I'm using 3M's PMA to mount photos to 8 ply rag, in lieu of my heatpress. I was wondering if there is a certain size for photos where PMA should not be used.

For example, I've got a photo to mount that measures 20" x 30". Is this getting too large to use PMA?

Thanks.

-Mike.
 
Even at 24 x 30, I haven’t had any problems with the adhesive coming loose. PMA is extremely strong.

And, I generally haven’t had any problems mounting prints up to that size (ink jet or Ilfochrome), but it depends a lot on the weight of the paper to be mounted. Flimsy stuff (like newsprint) is a bit more of a problem since it is less “positionable” due to it’s tendency to tear more easily than other heavier papers.

I have good luck by bowing the paper to be mounted so that the middle of the paper first touches the PMA. Then sloooowly lower each side so that wrinkles don’t appear.

But I don’t think that PMA is “acid-free”. I wonder if it is overkill using an 8-ply <u>rag</u> substrate?
 
I use PMA on oversize laminated maps with no problem. I haven't even thought about size issues. I am usually impulsive and just jump right in!! I have even used it on large pieces and piece the PMA with no seam showing on the right side.
 
I have had problems with big Raven Maps. The maps tend to bubble up and as a result I have stopped using it on them. I don't know if it is an issue with the PMA or with my Vac Press, as it is only a 3648 and the maps a bigger than that.

I have also had a problem with the adhesive sticking to a laser printed "mission statement" that I company brought in. The company had left the frames in the direct sunlight in an un-airconditioned room, and the PMA had given up the ghost!

Was told that it was the paper used and that using PMA was not recommended for that paper type. They asked if I had read their disclaimer on the paper types and sizes. (It's in the package somewhere! You'd be surprised what they say not to do!) Don't have it handy, but I think it says anything over 16 by 20 and/or over 1 lb in weight is off limits!
fire.gif
 
Thank you all for your in-put.

I just finished mounting the photo with the PMA and it was smoooooth sailing.

-Mike.
 
Was told that it was the paper used and that using PMA was not recommended for that paper type. They asked if I had read their disclaimer on the paper types and sizes. (It's in the package somewhere! You'd be surprised what they say not to do!)
That is why I love 3M ProSpray so much. It works with anything, or should I say worked with anything.

Sorry for the FrankenThread Mike.
 
(slinks quietly over to the corner hoping nobody notices as she ponders all those maps and what they are doing today)
 
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