Guidelines on how to print, mount & frame artwork, ready to hang
What Can You Submit?
We are looking for sketches of London (within M25) made on location, in any medium. You can submit original sketches or fine art quality giclée prints (details below) of your work. Please note, home printed artwork will not be accepted.
How Should Artwork Be Presented for Hanging?
If selected, your artwork must be framed in black or white (no metal clip frames). Frames should be either box-framed or mounted neatly.
All frames must be fitted with secure hanging fixtures compatible with our system—either pre-fitted hooks or D-rings positioned at least 2mm from the backboard to allow proper hanging (details below).
Labeling Your Artwork
We will create a standardised label for each artwork, based on the information you provide in your submission form. Please ensure that all details are correct.
Each label will include:
The Urban Sketchers London logo
Unique artwork number (assigned by admin)
Title of the artwork (please keep it clear and concise)
Medium (original or giclée print with source details, e.g. giclée print from watercolour sketch)
Artist’s name
Artist’s Instagram handle (optional – leave blank if you don’t want it shared)
Price (or marked as Not for Sale – NFS)
What is a Giclée Print?
A giclée print is a high-quality reproduction of your artwork, printed on fine art paper in full color and at any size. To create one:
- Scan your artwork (or have it professionally scanned).
- Send the digital file to a fine art printer.
- Choose your print size and paper type (request a certificate of authenticity if desired).
- Decide on an edition size (e.g., a print labeled 1/100 means it’s the first of a 100-print series).
Where to Get Giclée Prints Made?
You can find fine art printers locally or online. Below are a few recommended options:
We only accept professional fine art giclée prints for the exhibition. Standard home-printed artwork will not be accepted.
Mounting and Framing Your Artwork
To properly mount your artwork, you will need two pieces of acid-free mount board:
- A back mount (a solid piece without a window).
- A window mount (with an aperture slightly smaller than your artwork).
The window mount should have 45-degree beveled edges on the front, while the back of the cut edges will have straight right angles.
Step-by-Step Mounting Process
- A 5cm border around the image is recommended for a clean presentation.
- Create a Mount Folder – attach the back of the window mount to the back mount with acid-free tape, forming a hinged folder.
- Position Your Artwork – place your artwork onto the back mount without fixing it yet. Close the mount folder to check the positioning—use a weight to keep the artwork in place.
- Fix the Artwork Using the Hinge Method – attach two strips of acid-free tape to the back of the top edge of your artwork.
- Add a crosspiece of tape over the exposed tape ends to secure them to the back mount.
This method allows you to remove the artwork later by cutting the tape without damaging it.
Final Checks
Close the mount and ensure the artwork is properly aligned with no edges showing.
Framing Your Mounted Artwork
A frame not only protects your artwork but also ensures a professional presentation. The mount serves to separate the artwork from the glass.
Step-by-Step Framing Process
- Insert the Mounted Artwork
- Open the back of the frame by lifting the pins.
- Remove the backboard and place your mounted artwork inside, facing the glass.
- Secure the backboard and close the pins.
- Seal the Frame
- Use acid-free tape to seal the edges of the frame, preventing dust from entering.
- Add Hanging Fixtures
- Attach D-rings to the frame’s inner edge, positioned one-third of the way from the top.
- Loop a strong cord or hanging wire through the D-rings and tie it securely.
- Ensure the hanging fixtures are sturdy—lightweight hooks are not suitable and will be rejected. If unsure, ask before purchasing a frame.
Box Frames & Built-in Fixtures
If your frame is a box frame, where the glass sits further from the artwork, this is acceptable. Some frames come with pre-installed sturdy hanging fixtures, which are fine as long as they are strong enough for the exhibition system.
If in doubt about the suitability of your frame, please email [email protected] and check with us before preparing your artwork.
