Art prints are a beautiful way to add personality and style to your home. Whether you have invested in affordable prints, fine art prints, or abstract art, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure their longevity. In this blog post, we will explore the best practices for preserving your art prints, so they remain vibrant and pristine for years to come.
1. Handle with Care
When handling art prints, it's crucial to do so with clean hands or, better yet, while wearing cotton gloves. Oils and dirt from your fingers can easily transfer to the paper, causing stains and deterioration over time.
- Use Gloves: Always wear cotton gloves to handle prints, as they prevent oils and dirt from transferring to the paper.
- Clean Surface: Ensure that the surface where you place the print is clean and dry to avoid any accidental damage.
2. Proper Framing
Framing your art prints not only enhances their appearance but also provides protection from environmental factors.
- UV-Protective Glass: Use UV-protective glass or acrylic to shield the print from harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause fading.
- Acid-Free Materials: Choose acid-free mats and backing boards to prevent the paper from yellowing over time.
- Spacers: Include spacers between the glass and the print to prevent the glass from sticking to the artwork, which can cause condensation and damage.
Which is why at Artenovas we sell prints with a variety of framed options. (Such as: https://www.artenovas.com/products/california-dreams-framed-print)
3. Optimal Display Conditions
Where you choose to display your art prints can significantly impact their longevity.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Hang your prints away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can fade the colors.
- Stable Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature and humidity level. Extreme fluctuations can cause the paper to expand and contract, leading to warping or cracking.
- Away from Heat Sources: Avoid placing prints near heat sources such as radiators or fireplaces, which can cause dryness and brittleness.
4. Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep your art prints looking their best.
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently dust the frame and glass. Avoid using cleaning solutions directly on the glass, as they can seep under the frame and damage the print.
- Check for Damage: Periodically inspect your prints for signs of damage or deterioration. Look for any signs of mold, mildew, or insect activity, especially if the prints are stored in humid environments.
5. Proper Storage
If you need to store your art prints, follow these guidelines to ensure they remain in excellent condition.
- Flat Storage: Store prints flat in a dry, cool place. Avoid rolling them, as this can cause creases and make them difficult to flatten later.
- Archival Sleeves: Use archival-quality sleeves or folders made from acid-free materials to protect prints from dust and environmental pollutants.
- Avoid Stacking: If you need to stack prints, place a piece of acid-free paper or board between each print to prevent them from sticking together and causing damage.
6. Professional Conservation
For valuable or antique art prints, consider consulting a professional conservator for advice and services tailored to preserving your artwork.
- Expert Assessment: A conservator can assess the condition of your prints and recommend appropriate conservation measures.
- Restoration Services: If your prints are damaged, a conservator can perform restoration work to repair and stabilize them.
Conclusion
By following these best practices, you can ensure that your fine art prints, affordable prints, and abstract art remain in pristine condition for years to come. Proper care and maintenance not only protect your investment but also allow you to enjoy the beauty and elegance of your art prints in your home for a lifetime.
Remember, the key to preserving art prints is a combination of careful handling, optimal display conditions, regular maintenance, and proper storage. With these tips, you can keep your art collection looking as vibrant and fresh as the day you acquired it.