Linen backing, washing, bleaching, paper replacement, tape removal, filling in fold lines, air brushing.

Linen backing is technically reversible. It is certainly possible to re-back a poster without too many problems. But if a poster is demounted, it will not return to its original condition.

Linen Backing

Linen backing is commonly an accepted form of preservation and restoration of original vintage movie posters, especially those that were shipped to the theatres folded.

Linen backing is a process whereby a poster is mounted to Japanese Masa paper with acid free paste and the Masa paper is mounted to an acid free canvas. Linen backing flattens the poster, preserves the poster and makes the poster more durable. During this process the poster can be cleaned, water damage fixed, paper replaced and fold lines filled in.

Linen backing enhances the appearance of a movie poster making it flat and easier to frame. (see Before and After section in gallery)

In my studio I have the ability to linen back pieces up to the size of a three-sheet movie poster.

Paper Backing

Paper backing is the process whereby a poster is mounted to Japanese Masa paper only. This process is usually reserved for posters on heavy cardboard stock. The drawback to paper backing is the poster can never be rolled and must be stored and shipped flat.

I find that heavy stock posters can also be linen backed with little difficulty.

Products Used

I use a 12 ounce Indian acid free canvas. This provides a durable solid foundation that can be easily rolled for shipping and storage.

The paper used is a Japanese Masa paper that is acid free and makes for an excellent buffer between the movie poster and the canvas.

The glue is made from a wheat starch adhesive that is prepared by hand.

The pigments used are Stabilo Softcolour water soluable colour sticks. I also use Cotman Water Colours and other brands of paint when airbrushing is required.

I use Workable Fixative and/or Clear Matte to finish the poster and prevent smudging.

Prices

  • One Sheet: $100.00
  • British Quads: $100.00
  • Half Sheets: $75.00
  • Inserts: $75.00
  • Three Sheets: $175.00
  • Additional Sizes: please contact me. Postage is additional.
  • Restoration time: negotiable.
  • Shrink Wrap Framing – One Sheet and British Quad $40, Half Sheet and Insert $25, Three Sheet $75