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Using GOLDEN Gels & Mediums for Adhering
Collage Elements and Mounting Artwork
Preparation for adhering layers
The process

Preparation
Whether adding printed elements into a painting or mounting a print onto canvas or panel, acrylic gels and mediums can be used as glues.

While our most common recommendation is Soft Gel (Gloss) because of its consistency, it is possible to use other gels and mediums as well, depending on the particular artwork and aesthetic concerns involved.

In preparation for gluing printed components, seal the printed surface with GOLDEN Archival Varnish (Gloss). Testing here is encouraged, both for gaining experience with spraying and also to insure compatibility with the printed piece. Some types of “printed” elements may have solvent sensitivity. Sealing the surface may take several coats depending on the absorbency of the printed surface. Once the surface has been well coated, the inks will be much less susceptible to bleeding.

Process
What follows is the basic process for "gluing" paper or canvas to a panel:

First prepare the back of the printed element, paper, canvas or other compatible flat collage element, with one or two thin coats of Soft Gel (Gloss). This can be accomplished most easily by brushing the gel on thinly with either a varnish brush or a soft bristle brush. The Soft Gel will seal the absorbency prior to actually attaching the piece to a panel or other surface.

For paper, this process could cause buckling, especially on thinner sheets, in which case this step my need to be eliminated, depending on the paper used.

The destination panel or surface should simultaneously be prepared. Apply a coat of Soft Gel (Gloss) to seal the absorbency of the destination surface.

By pre-coating both surfaces, less Soft Gel is needed for the actual gluing process, and in turn a better bond is created. This process also reduces the chance of edges curling and air pockets developing due to lack of gel between the two materials.

When ready to glue the two pieces together, evenly apply a thin coat of Soft Gel (Gloss) to the panel or other material you are gluing to. A useful tool for evenly spreading the gel is a notched trowel, typically used to apply flooring and wall coating glues, and found in any hardware store. This tool will "comb" the gel and effectively provide an even distribution. For some types of collage, a simple brush or palette knife application will work fine. Carefully lay the piece that you are adhering down onto the wet gel and gently position it.

Place a cut sheet of polyethylene plastic over the piece you are adhering to protect its surface, especially if it is delicate artwork. Starting in the center and either using a brayer ( rubber roller used in printmaking ) or a bunched up soft cloth, gently roll or rub outward with very even pressure to move any air pockets out towards the edges. Excess gel will ooze out at the edges so be ready to gently wipe it off with another piece of cloth. Allow the layers to dry.

Depending on your project, you might consider inverting the piece onto a clean piece of polyethylene plastic, applying a weight to the back of the board and allow to dry overnight.

Large prints being adhered to another substrate can be the most difficult to attach without air pockets, as the gel needs to stay wet until the two objects are ready to be glued together.  Practicing the technique and working with assistance is highly suggested.

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