Black vs White Foam Board: Practical Uses for Mounting Prints

If you work in picture framing, photography, or run a print shop, you’ve likely used foam board in one form or another. It’s a versatile, lightweight material ideal for mounting, backing, and presenting printed work. But when it comes to choosing between black or white foam board, the decision isn't just about appearance — it's about choosing the right tool for the job.

In this post, we’ll break down the practical uses for each type, with insights that apply to everyday studio work, gallery prep, or retail framing. Whether you’re buying for a framing workshop or stocking up for your print shop, this guide will help you decide which board best suits your needs.

Why the Colour of Foam Board Matters

While both black and white foam boards are made from the same core materials — a polystyrene foam centre with smooth paper surfaces — the colour of the outer layer can affect how your print looks, how it holds up, and how it’s framed or displayed.

Let’s look at some real-world scenarios where choosing the right board can make a big difference.

When to Use Black Foam Board

Black foam board is particularly popular in photography studios, galleries, and professional framing environments. But its benefits go beyond visual style — it's also extremely functional in certain situations.

✅ Practical Benefits of Black Foam Board:

• Reduces show-through
  When mounting lightweight paper, such as newspaper clippings, leaflets, or thin prints, black foam board helps prevent ink or images from the reverse side showing through — a common issue with white board.
• Discreet in shadow-gap frames
  If you’re using tray or floater frames, black board blends into the background, creating a more seamless and professional finish — especially where board edges are visible.
• Enhances dark or high-contrast artwork
  With photographic prints, particularly black-and-white or rich colour images, black backing absorbs light and can make colours appear more vivid.
• Better in spotlighted or dimly lit environments
  Unlike white board, which may reflect ambient light behind the image, black board keeps the visual focus on the print.

Common Use Cases:

• Mounting newspaper articles, certificates, or archival items
• Backing photographic prints for gallery display or framing
• Displays under directional lighting (e.g. exhibition spotlights)
• Tray or shadow gap frames where board edges are exposed

When to Use White Foam Board

White foam board is a staple across workshops and studios. Its neutral, non-reflective surface makes it a good all-rounder — and in many cases, it’s the default choice for high-volume work.

✅ Practical Benefits of White Foam Board:

• Versatile for lighter prints
  Particularly suitable for bright artwork, high-key photography, or light-coloured illustrations, where a neutral background works with the tonal balance of the image.
• Easier to write on or label
  White foam board is often used in galleries or workshops where notes, labels or reference numbers need to be added directly onto the board.
• Useful in signage and point-of-sale displays
  White board offers good contrast for cut vinyl, printed graphics or stickers.
• More cost-effective
  White foam board tends to be more affordable than black, making it a practical choice for bulk orders or general use. It’s often less expensive to produce and is widely stocked across the industry.

Common Use Cases:

• Mounting poster prints, watercolours, or general artwork
• POS displays or temporary signage
• Projects with labelling or written notes
• Bulk framing work or cost-conscious mounting

Tips for Choosing the Right Foam Board

💡 Worth noting: White foam board is generally more affordable than black, partly due to lower production costs and partly because it’s used more widely in everyday framing and display work. If you’re ordering in bulk or working on high-volume jobs, white foam board is usually the most economical choice.

Buy Foam Board Online – Trade Quality, UK-Wide Delivery

Looking for foam board you can rely on for professional use? We supply a range of black and white foam boards, ideal for:

• Foam board for picture framing
• Foam board for photographers
• Foam board for mounting prints in studio or retail settings

We offer a selection of sizes and thicknesses with fast UK-wide delivery. Whether you’re mounting a one-off print or need regular stock for trade use, we’ve got you covered.

View Foam Board by Thickness

Black Foam Board

White Foam Board

Final Thought

Choosing the right foam board isn’t just a visual decision — it’s a practical one. From reducing show-through on newspaper clippings to blending seamlessly in tray frames, the colour and finish of your board can make all the difference. A few thoughtful choices at the mounting stage can elevate your final result and give your work a more polished, professional edge.

Still not sure which foam board to go for? Get in touch with our team or explore our collection to find the right fit for your next project.