How to Care for Your Art Print

We hope you're here to find out how you can keep your Plantish art print looking fresh, but this guide will work for any art (booooo if it isn't one of our amazing creations). With a little care you'll be able to maintain your art for years to come! 

1. Location Is Key

Where you place your artwork in your home is the first step in ensuring its longevity, and you should definitely consider the following:

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Exposure to sunlight can cause colours to fade over time, even in pieces protected by UV-resistant glass. Opt for a location with indirect or controlled lighting if you can!
• Monitor Humidity Levels: High humidity can lead to mould growth and warping of the frame or artwork, while low humidity can cause brittleness. Aim for a stable humidity level between 40-50%. 
• Keep Away from Heat Sources: Avoid hanging art near radiators, fireplaces or heating vents, as fluctuating temperatures can cause damage over time, which would obviously suck. 

2. Get Your Frame On

The materials you choose for framing play a significant role in protecting your art:

• Acid Free Materials: Ensure that the matting and backing are acid free to prevent discolouration and deterioration of the artwork over time - nobody wants a yellowy artwork (unless it was yellow to start with of course 👀)
• Protective Glazing: Use glass or acrylic glazing to shield your art from dust, moisture, and UV rays. Museum-grade or UV-resistant glass is an excellent choice for high-value pieces.
• Sturdy Frames: Invest in a well constructed frame that complements the artwork while providing proper support and protection.

3. Clean with Care

Regular maintenance keeps your framed art looking pristine, but it must be done carefully to avoid unintentional damage.

• Dust Gently: Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to remove dust from the frame. Avoid using water or cleaning sprays, which can seep into the frame and damage both the frame and artwork.
• Avoid Direct Contact with Artwork: Never attempt to clean the art itself, especially if it’s on canvas or paper, as this can cause irreversible damage.
• Handle with Gloves: When moving or cleaning frames, use gloves to prevent fingerprints or oils from transferring onto the surface if you can. If not gloves, make sure your hands are clean and free of as much oil as much as possible (wiping your hands with wet wipes and drying them with a towel should do the trick).

4. Regularly Inspect Your Artwork

Over time, even well cared for art can face issues. Periodic inspection allows you to catch and address problems early:

• Check for Moisture Damage: Look for signs of mould, warping or water stains, especially if your artwork is displayed in areas prone to humidity like bathrooms or basements.
• Watch for Pests: Keep an eye out for insects that can damage paper based art or wooden frames.
• Assess the Frame's Condition: Ensure that the frame remains sturdy and that the glazing is free from cracks.

5. Storage Tips for Unused Art

If you need to store artwork temporarily, try to take the following measures:

• Flat and Stable Position: Store framed art flat or upright with separators to prevent scratching or bending. Cardboard is a great choice for this as long as it's in a dry place.
• Climate Controlled Environment: Choose a storage area that is cool, dry, and free from significant temperature changes - in other words pls don't just pop it in the shed.
• Protective Covers: Wrap frames in acid-free paper or bubble wrap for added protection.

Hopefully this should cover it, but if you have aaaannny questions at all, feel free to check out our FAQ or reach out to enquiries@plantish.uk.