Working with Poly-tab

Innovator Micro-grant 2023

Thanks to the Arts Connection of San Bernardino Innovator Micro-Grant 2023, I was able to experiment and learn to use poly-tab as a method of installing murals.

What are Poly-tab Murals?

Poly-tab is traditionally used as fabric backing; however the material has been used for mural installatilon.

Instead of working onsite, muralist paint on poly-tab at their studios and install the poly-tab onto the surface with adhesive. This process has been compared to "outdoor wallpaper."

Poly-tab murals were revolutionized by Philadelphia artists and organizations. (About - Mural Arts Philadelphia Mural Arts Philadelphia).

Wondering how durable are poly-tab murals are? Search for Philly poly-tab murals!

Materials

  1. Poly-tab material aka parachute cloth or mural cloth which can be found at fabric distribution stores.

  2. Measuring tape, scissors, pencil

  3. Gesso - to prime and prepare material for painting

  4. Paint - paint appropriate for your chosen location

  5. Brush and/or roller - to prepare material with gesso and to install onto wall

  6. Nova gel - to install and “glue” painted poly-tab onto wall

  7. Plastic squeegee - to help flatten poly-tab mural onto wall

Prep the Poly-tab

1) Measure the poly-tab for your space. Measure twice!
2) Prepare your measured poly-tab piece by priming it. Here I’ve used Nova Gesso.
3) Prepare your measured poly-tab piece by priming it. Here I’ve used Nova Gesso.

Paint your Design

4) Painting feels like a soft canvas.
If your mural is outside, it’s best to use exterior grade paint such as exterior house paint from your local hardware store, Nova paint, or Golden mural paint.

Installation

5) Clean your surface.

6) Think poly-tab as outdoor wallpaper. I've used a brush to apply the Nova Gel onto the surface to create a permanent bond.

Installation video

Complete! The poly-tab almost takes the texture of the surface. I’ve finished by applying a clear coat to protect the mural.

In this project, I’ve experimented using poly-tab on a very textured surface; three years later the mural still stands against California desert heat and downpour of 2023 rainstorms.

Even so, it’s best to use poly-tab on smoother surfaces.

Contact

Victorville, CA

Imagine Vivid Creative Studio©