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These tips not only apply to the work that I create, but all original artwork that you cherish and want to last a lifetime.
Original paintings should never be hung where they will are hit by sunlight, low light levels are best. Such as an interior wall of your home away from a window. Too much light can discolor paper over time, and even when high quality pigments are used, the color will begin to fade over time as well.
Original watercolors should be matted and framed with ACID-FREE matting and tapes only. The acid seeps into the paper and becomes yellow or
orange and can corrode or stain the artwork. The adhesive on the tape can be very damaging, it is often rubber-based and inherently acidic. Make sure to specify both the matting AND tapes to your framer and many are not aware of the importance of both. You may suggest to your framer to use wheat or vegetable paste or linen tape in place of adhesive tapes to place the art on acid-free paper and using corragated plastic or acid-free cardboard for backing the piece.
Frame with UV-Protectant Glass. Make sure to specifiy this to your framer. Also, a good framer will never place the artwork against the glass, be sure to check this.
Watch the way your framer handles the work and others work. Are they taking great care? Ask whether their work was insured and what experience they have with conservation framing. If they seem to be a step ahead of you with your questions, they know their stuff. If you have to ask or tell them about Acid-free and uv protection, you may want to consider a different framer.
Take care when handling your original prior to framing, holding a piece carelessly can cause damage due to oils in your skin and creases you may cause from holding.
Environment is extremely important because temperature, humidity levels, air pollutants from car exhaust or dust, storage materials and light exposure can damage art. In High humidity, mold growth, mildew or fungal attack can occur. So please do not hang your original pieces in your bathroom. High humidity can also cause photo fading and paper wrinkling.
If framing is to be put off for awhile, please consider matting immediately. Artwork is more secure within a matt package.
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