Art prints are a popular and affordable way to bring beautiful and unique pieces of art into our homes. Whether it's a reproduction of a famous painting or a limited edition print from a contemporary artist, art prints allow us to enjoy the beauty of art without breaking the bank. As an expert in the field, I understand the importance of proper care and handling when it comes to preserving art prints. In this article, I will share my knowledge and experience on the special care instructions for handling and storing art prints.
The Importance of Proper Handling
Art prints are delicate and can easily get damaged if not handled with care. The oils from our hands, moisture, and even dust can cause irreversible damage to the print's surface.Therefore, it is crucial to handle art prints with clean hands and avoid touching the surface as much as possible. When handling art prints, it is best to wear cotton gloves to prevent any oils or dirt from transferring onto the print. If gloves are not available, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before handling the print. It is also essential to handle the print by its edges or use acid-free paper or tissue to hold it.
Proper Storage Techniques
Storing art prints correctly is just as important as handling them properly. Improper storage can lead to fading, discoloration, and even damage to the print.Here are some tips for storing art prints:
1.Use Acid-Free Materials
Acidic materials can cause yellowing and discoloration of art prints over time. Therefore, it is crucial to use acid-free materials for storing prints. This includes acid-free folders, boxes, and tissue paper.2.Avoid Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration of art prints. It is best to store them in a cool, dry place away from any windows or direct sunlight.If you want to display your prints, make sure to use UV-protected glass or frames to protect them from the sun's harmful rays.
3.Keep Them Flat
Art prints should always be stored flat to prevent any creases or wrinkles. If you need to store them in a folder or box, make sure to place them between acid-free tissue paper and avoid stacking them on top of each other.4.Control Humidity and Temperature
Humidity and temperature can also affect the condition of art prints. High humidity can cause mold growth, while extreme temperatures can cause the paper to expand or contract, leading to warping or buckling. It is best to store art prints in a room with a stable temperature and humidity level.Special Care Instructions for Different Types of Art Prints
Different types of art prints require different care instructions.Here are some special care instructions for the most common types of art prints:
Limited Edition Prints
Limited edition prints are numbered and signed by the artist, making them more valuable than regular art prints. To preserve their value, it is essential to handle and store them with extra care. Make sure to keep them in acid-free materials and avoid touching the surface with your hands.Giclee Prints
Giclee prints are high-quality reproductions of original artworks, made using archival inks and paper. These prints are delicate and should be handled with care.It is best to store them in acid-free materials and avoid touching the surface with your hands.
Canvas Prints
Canvas prints are becoming increasingly popular, and they require special care instructions. When handling canvas prints, make sure to hold them by the edges and avoid touching the surface. It is also essential to keep them away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent any warping or damage to the canvas.Conclusion
In conclusion, proper care and handling are crucial for the preservation of art prints. By following these special care instructions, you can ensure that your art prints remain in excellent condition for years to come.Remember to use acid-free materials, avoid direct sunlight, and handle the prints with clean hands or gloves. With the right care, your art prints will continue to bring beauty and joy into your home for a long time.
