caring for your art

Caring for your art!
Important information on how to keep your art looking it's best.
(brought to you by "Grandpa's Art")

Like all collectibles, proper handling of fine art is a must. Remember - improper framing or storage can damage your works of art.

Storing Unframed Art

If you are not planning on framing your art immediately:

ALWAYS

Store in a cool dry place.
Store flat, if possible, between acid-free boards or in acid-free print jackets.
Remove any tissue paper that does not have a waxy feel.

NEVER

Store between cardboard. Remove any brown craft paper print may have been wrapped in. Both are highly acidic and can yellow art rapidly.
Store in brown shipping tubes. If you have no alternative to this, wrap entire outside of piece with wax paper.

Proper Matting and Framing

Improper matting or framing will cause damage to your art over time. Acids contained in certain framing materials can cause paper to turn brown, become brittle and eventually deteriorate.

ALWAYS

Use only acid-free or rag matting, mounting and backing boards.
Make certain your framer understands preservation framing. Originals on paper may require more extensive conservation framing than limited edition prints based on potential value.
Discuss glazing (glass) options with your framer. Museum or UV protective glass may be required.

NEVER

Allow a fine work of art to be permanently secured or mounted. Art needs to breathe.
Let glass come directly in contact with the surface of a piece of art. Use matting or 'spacers' to keep the glass up. This allows air space and avoids possible condensation.
Cut the paper or alter the original condition of artwork. Doing so may impact future value.

Even properly framed art is susceptible to environmental conditions. Protect your investment by taking the following precautions:

ALWAYS

Allow airspace between the frame and the wall. Make sure your framer puts bumpers on the bottom of the frame.
Keep art away from all sources of heat including radiators. We don't recommend hanging fine art over fireplaces or on walls which contain flues.

NEVER

Hang art in direct sunlight. The sun's ultraviolet rays and fluorescent lighting are harmful to inks, paints and paper. Even indirect sunlight can damage your art after years of exposure. For very valuable works, UV filtered glass or UV Plexiglas is recommended.
Hang valuable art where it is subjected to extremes in temperature and humidity.
Spray glass cleaner directly onto framed art. Spray onto a soft cloth and gently wipe. Paper towels and ammonia based cleaners are not recommended.

Properly framed, your fine art will give you pleasure and value for a lifetime.

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