How to Care for Your Artwork

How to Care for Your Artwork

Simple tips to help your painting or print last a lifetime

Whether you’ve just bought an original painting or a fine art print, taking a few simple steps to care for your artwork will help keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

In this post, I’ll guide you through how to protect and display your artwork, whether it’s an original, a canvas print, or a paper print.

Originals

My original paintings are made with high-quality professional materials, acrylic paint on canvas, carefully sealed for durability. That said, paintings are still delicate objects that benefit from a little love and attention.

Here’s how to care for your original:

  • Avoid direct sunlight: Even sealed paintings can fade over time if exposed to strong UV light. Hang your painting where it gets natural light, but not full sun.
  • Avoid damp areas: Bathrooms and kitchens with steam and moisture can affect the canvas and paint surface.
  • Dust gently: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove dust. Don’t use water or cleaning products.
  • Don’t lean objects against the canvas: It can stretch or damage the surface.

Canvas Prints

Canvas prints are also printed on canvas and stretched over wooden frames. They’re made with archival inks for long-lasting color, and they arrive ready to hang.

To keep your canvas print looking fresh:

  • Same rules as originals: Avoid too much direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Dust occasionally: Use a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster.
  • No sprays or cleaners: Never spray anything directly onto the canvas.

Paper Prints

Paper prints are printed on thick, museum-quality matte paper using archival inks. They’re delicate and should be framed behind glass to protect the surface.

Here’s how to care for your paper prints:

  • Frame behind glass or acrylic: This protects the paper from dust, UV light, and moisture.
  • Avoid touching the surface: Oils from your fingers can damage the paper or ink.
  • Display out of direct sunlight: UV rays can cause fading, even with high-quality prints. 

Have Questions?

Feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to help you make your art feel at home. Art is made to last, and if you take care of it in the right way it can bring you joy for decades.

Mari

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