Stickable photo tiles surged in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when people found themselves spending more time at home. With the extra free time, many sought easy and creative ways to personalize their living spaces. These photo tiles offered a simple solution—just peel off the adhesive backing and stick them to the wall. If you wanted to rearrange the tiles, you could easily remove and re-stick them without any hassle.
One company that led the charge in this market was Mixtiles. While the actual photo prints, backing, and frames they offered weren’t particularly unique—many printing companies could produce similar products—Mixtiles’ success stemmed from two key innovations:
- User-Friendly App: Mixtiles developed an app that made it incredibly easy for users to upload photos for printing, streamlining the entire process.
- Revolutionary Adhesive System: Their unique tape system allowed users to reposition photo tiles without damaging walls. This reusable adhesive set them apart from competitors.
Today, numerous apps allow users to upload and print photos for wall décor, but few companies offer the same high-quality, repositionable adhesive that Mixtiles pioneered. Mixtiles invested significant time in perfecting their tape, which is a challenge most competitors have yet to overcome. Luckily for you, we know how to replicate that same adhesive experience.
But before we reveal how to get your hands on Mixtiles-style tape, let’s explore some of the common backing and framing options available for gallery walls.
Backing Options for Frameless Photos
When it comes to frameless photo displays, the backing material plays a key role. Here are some popular options:
- Acrylic (Plastic): Known for its sleek and modern look, acrylic backings offer a glossy finish and a durable surface for photo prints.
- Foam Boards (Polystyrene): Lightweight and affordable, foam boards are another popular option. Often referred to by the trade name Gatorboard, these are typically 3/16″ thick and offer a sturdy base for your photos.
- Metal Backings: For a more industrial or contemporary feel, metal backings provide a bold, polished aesthetic.
- Wood Backings: If you’re going for a rustic or natural vibe, wood backings add warmth and texture to your space.
To get started, simply send your preferred printer a high-quality photo and specify your desired size and backing material.
Framed Prints
Framed prints offer a timeless option that can elevate the style of any room. Depending on the frame choice and placement, they can add a formal touch or a cozy, homey vibe. If you’re looking for design inspiration, there are plenty of helpful resources online. For example, check out Nick Lewis’ video on YouTube, Gallery Walls: The Do’s and Don’ts, for practical tips on arranging framed artwork.
The Secret to Easy, Damage-Free Wall Mounting
Regardless of whether you opt for framed or frameless prints, there are plenty of companies that can provide high-quality photo printing. The real game-changer, however, is the method of mounting your prints.
To achieve the same ease of use as Mixtiles, use a peel-and-stick adhesive system that allows you to reposition your photos without damaging your walls. Apartment Tape is a great option for this. Available in white or black 1” wide rolls or pre-cut pieces, it provides the same functionality as Mixtiles’ adhesive. The pre-cut pieces are slightly thicker than the rolls, which can give your prints a bit of a 3D effect, making them stand out slightly from the wall.
