What’s the Difference Between Loose Prints and Mounted Prints?

To mount or not to mount? That is the question. Loose prints and mounted prints have very important, yet very different, roles in presenting your artwork and photos.

So… what’s the difference? Which one is best for selling your art, framing, or displaying it in a gallery?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each format so you can make the right call for your art and your audience.

What Is a Loose Print?

Loose prints are just what they sound like: your artwork printed on professional photo or fine art paper, without any backing or frame.

• Ship them rolled or flat
• Add your own matting or frame
• Package them in a sleeve for resale
• Choose from a wide range of paper types and border options

Loose prints are a great choice if you're selling online or framing the prints yourself.

Paper Types for Loose Prints

Fine Art Papers (Giclée):

• Hot Press Bright – Smooth, matte, bright white surface, 100% cotton
• Cold Press Bright – Textured matte with a bright tone, 100% cotton
• Photo Rag – Velvety, museum-quality matte finish, 100% cotton fiber
• William Turner – Watercolor-style texture with a soft tone, 100% cotton
• FineArt Baryta – Glossy with deep blacks and vivid detail, baryta-coated, alpha cellulose

Photo Papers:

• Luster – Subtle gloss (orange peel texture), reduces glare, excellent color depth and detail
• Glossy – High-gloss finish, extremely vibrant, ideal for colorful photography
• Metallic Glossy – Pearlescent finish that adds depth and dimension to colors
• Photo Matte Fibre – Non-reflective matte surface, natural white tone, deep blacks and great for soft, subdued images

→ Order our free media sample set to compare paper types in person!

Border Options for Loose Prints

• Borderless (Image prints edge-to-edge)
• 1/4" or 1" Additional White Border (added to image dimensions)

What Is a Mounted Print?

Mounted prints are loose prints attached to a rigid foam board or Gatorfoam backing, giving the artwork a sturdy, display-ready feel.

These are great for:

• Artists prepping for gallery shows or art fairs
• Customers who want a ready-to-hang or frame-ready print
• Situations where handling durability is important

You can still pack them individually. Many sizes are made to fit standard frames, but always check the thickness of your backing. Some frames don't have enough room to fit the 3/16" thickness.

Mounting Options

• 3/16″ White Foam Board
• 3/16″ Black Gatorfoam (Pro)

Note: Mounted prints cannot include extra borders like loose prints can. If you would like a border around your image, you will need to add the border to the uploaded file.

Paper Types for Mounted Prints

All paper types listed above for loose prints are available for mounted prints.

Loose vs. Mounted Prints: Side-by-Side Comparison

Durability

All of our print media is archival quality and tested to last 100+ years in the right conditions. Whether loose or mounted, you can extend longevity by:

• Storing in acid-free sleeves
• Framing behind glass or acrylic
• Avoiding direct sunlight and moisture

Mounted prints are more durable for handling and transporting. They also make great sample sets if you want to show your images to many people. 

Pro Tip: Mounted prints make great samples due to their durability.

Framing Tips

Whether you’re working with loose prints or mounted ones, the right framing can elevate the presentation and extend the life of your artwork.

For loose prints:

• Use acid-free mats and backing boards to protect against discoloration.
• Avoid letting the glass touch the print. Spacers or matting help preserve texture.
• Let curled prints rest flat after shipping before framing.

For mounted prints:

• Most are 3/16″ thick. Check your frame’s depth before inserting.
• They can be framed with or without glass, depending on your style.
• Floater frames or shadow boxes create a clean, modern display.

Wherever you hang your art, try to avoid direct sunlight and high humidity to keep your prints looking their best.

Shipping Differences

Depending on size, loose prints can be shipped rolled or flat, which helps keep shipping costs lower. Mounted prints need to be shipped flat due to their stiff backing. If the mounts are oversized, you might need extra packaging and pay additional fees. Visit our Shipping Info page for details.

Pro Tip: Order a loose print online and get it mounted locally to save on shipping.

Not Sure Which Format to Choose?

Choose Loose Prints if:

• You want to frame the print yourself
• You’re selling online or in high volume
• You want the most flexible shipping and pricing

Choose Mounted Prints if:

• You’re prepping for a show or temporary exhibit
• You want a ready-to-display format
• You want added protection, presentation, and durability

Want More Finishing Options?

• Retail Ready Prints
• Matting Packages
• Clear Bagged Prints
• Gallery Wrap Canvas

Still unsure? Contact us, and we’ll help you find the right format that fits your needs.