Art Care & Maintenance Guide

Caring for Your Art Prints

Keep your artwork looking vibrant and pristine for decades to come with proper care and maintenance.

Display Environment

Lighting Considerations

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can fade inks over time, even with UV-resistant papers
• Ideal Lighting: Use LED or fluorescent lights rather than halogen or incandescent bulbs
• Light Levels: Limit exposure to bright light when possible, especially for colour prints
• UV Protection: Consider UV-filtering glass for valuable pieces in bright rooms

Temperature & Humidity

• Stable Environment: Avoid rooms with dramatic temperature or humidity changes
• Ideal Range: 18-21°C (65-70°F) with 45-55% relative humidity
• Problem Areas: Avoid bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and areas near heating vents
• Air Circulation: Ensure good airflow around framed pieces

Handling Your Artwork

Proper Handling Techniques

• Clean Hands: Always wash and dry hands before handling
• Hold by Edges: Support prints from underneath, avoid touching the image area
• Two-Person Rule: Use two people for larger pieces to prevent bending or dropping
• Protective Covering: Use acid-free tissue paper when moving unframed prints

Storage Guidelines

• Flat Storage: Store prints flat in acid-free boxes or portfolios
• Interleaving: Place acid-free tissue between stacked prints
• Avoid Rolling: Never roll prints, especially those with heavy ink coverage
• Climate Control: Store in cool, dry areas away from direct light

Cleaning & Maintenance

Regular Maintenance

• Dust Removal: Use a soft, dry brush or lint-free cloth for frames
• Glass Cleaning: Use streak-free glass cleaner on frame glass only
• Avoid Chemicals: Never use cleaning products directly on the print surface
• Professional Help: Consult professionals for valuable pieces or stubborn stains

Frame Care

• Check Mounting: Periodically inspect for loose mounting or warping
• Replace Hardware: Update hanging hardware every few years for security
• Backing Boards: Replace acidic backing with museum-quality materials
• Matting: Use acid-free, lignin-free matting materials only

Framing & Presentation

Professional Framing Tips

Choosing the Right Frame

• Material Quality: Invest in solid wood or high-quality metal frames
• Size Considerations: Allow for proper matting - usually 2-4 inches on all sides
• Style Harmony: Choose frames that complement both the artwork and your decor
• Conservation Standards: Use conservation-quality materials for valuable pieces

Matting & Glazing Options

• Mat Benefits: Mats prevent the print from touching glass and provide visual breathing room
• Glazing Types: Choose between regular glass, UV-filtering glass, or museum acrylic
• Backing Materials: Use acid-free foam core or honeycomb backing boards
• Mounting Methods: Prefer reversible mounting techniques for valuable prints

DIY Framing Guidelines

Essential Supplies

• Acid-free mats and backing boards
• Conservation-quality adhesives
• Clean, lint-free gloves
• Soft brushes for cleaning
• Level and measuring tools

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare Workspace: Clean, dust-free area with good lighting
2. Measure Carefully: Double-check all measurements before cutting
3. Handle Gently: Wear gloves and work on clean surfaces
4. Mount Properly: Use photo corners or reversible mounting techniques
5. Seal Carefully: Ensure dust-tight seal when closing frame

Long-Term Preservation

Environmental Monitoring

• Check Regularly: Inspect your collection every 6 months
• Document Changes: Note any fading, staining, or physical damage
• Professional Assessment: Have valuable pieces evaluated annually
• Insurance Updates: Keep documentation current for insurance purposes

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Color Changes: Fading or colour shifts, especially in bright areas
• Physical Damage: Tears, creases, or separation of materials
• Staining: Brown spots (foxing) or other discoloration
• Pest Activity: Look for insect damage or droppings near artwork

When to Seek Professional Help

• Conservation Issues: Significant fading, staining, or physical damage
• Reframing Needs: Upgrading to conservation-quality materials
• Environmental Problems: Persistent humidity or pest issues
• Insurance Appraisals: Professional valuation for valuable pieces

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my prints last with proper care? With proper care and conservation framing, high-quality giclée prints can last 100+ years without significant fading.

Can I hang artwork in my bathroom? Bathrooms are not ideal due to humidity fluctuations, but well-ventilated bathrooms with exhaust fans may be acceptable for less valuable pieces.

Should I use glass or acrylic glazing? Glass is traditional and scratch-resistant, while acrylic is lighter and offers better UV protection. Choose based on your specific needs.

How do I remove dust from my framed artwork? Use a soft, dry brush or microfiber cloth on the frame and glass. Never touch the print surface directly.

What should I do if I notice damage? Stop handling the piece and consult a professional conservator. Attempting DIY repairs often causes more damage.

Is it worth investing in conservation framing? For valuable or irreplaceable pieces, conservation framing is essential. For decorative prints, standard quality framing may be sufficient.