How to Apply BEVA 371 Film: Mounting a Paper Poster to Tyvek

Mounting a paper poster with BEVA 371 film is a straightforward process that ensures long-lasting results. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to adhere your poster to a Tyvek base—a versatile method that can be applied to various material combinations. Be sure to watch the accompanying video for a visual step-by-step demonstration:

Materials:

• BEVA 371 Film (2.5 mil thickness)

• Tacking Iron (set to 65°C/150°F)

• Pressing Material (Evolon CR or similar)

• Tyvek Sheet (cut larger than the poster)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Prepare the Poster

   

   • Iron the poster flat to remove any wrinkles.

     • Place a protective pressing material (like Evolon CR) between the tacking iron and the poster to prevent direct heat contact.

2. Cut the Tyvek

   • Trim the Tyvek slightly larger than your poster.

     • Tyvek is lightweight, durable, and acid-free, making it an ideal backing material. However, this process can be applicable with a variety of different substrates, from delicate Japanese Washi to canvas and everything in between.

3. Prepare the BEVA 371 Film

   

   • Cut the BEVA 371 film to the size of the poster. You’ll notice the adhesive film is sandwiched between two layers: an opaque paper and a shiny film. The BEVA will be adhered to the plastic film, which is similarly translucent but has a smoother texture than the BEVA.

     • 2.5 mil thickness is appropriate for most mounting applications, as we are using here, however 1 mil may suffice for lightweight papers and fabrics.

   • Peel off the paper backing to expose the adhesive.

     • Save the paper backing to use later as pressing material.

4. Adhere BEVA Film to Tyvek

   

   • Lay the adhesive side of the BEVA film onto the Tyvek.

   • With the tacking iron, press in a T-shape (along one edge and down the center) to anchor the film and prevent shifting.

     • If needed, adjust the heat or move the iron more slowly to ensure proper adhesion.

5. Peel Off the Plastic Layer

   

   • Once the film is adhered to the Tyvek, peel away the plastic layer, leaving the BEVA adhesive bonded to the Tyvek.

6. Mount the Poster

   

   • Carefully position the poster on top of the adhesive film.

   • Reactivate the BEVA adhesive by ironing through the protective backing paper.

     • Once again, start ironing in a T-shape, then methodically cover the entire surface.

7. Trim the Edges

   

   • Once the adhesive cools, use a straightedge and knife to trim the excess Tyvek, leaving clean edges.

     
     

Your poster is now mounted with a sturdy Tyvek backing, ready for framing or long-term storage!