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Caring for Art and Crafts

Taking Care of Collectibles at Home

Preserving Fine Art at Home

If you have purchased a fine art piece, you may be unfamiliar with the best ways to preserve your item.

Museums dedicate entire teams to the careful preservation of works of art. While many of their techniques are difficult and expensive, there are steps that you can take at home.

If your item is particularly fragile or valuable, it strongly suggested that you consult an expert preservationist.

If you prefer to protect your items yourself, provided here are a few suggestions to help combat the most common difficulties.

Light

Natural sunlight is by far the most damaging type of light. However, room lighting can also cause art pieces to fade, discolor or even degenerate.

To combat the damage caused by light, display your artwork in a room with heavy curtains, and be sure to keep the curtains closed whenever possible. You can also cover your windows with a UV blocking film.

To guard against damage from room lighting, choose low-wattage incandescent bulbs rather than fluorescents. You can mount artwork behind UV blocking glass and/or cover fluorescent bulbs in UV blocking wrappers as well.

Temperature and Humidity

Artwork should never be exposed to extremes of heat or cold. Most art pieces can be maintained at normal room temperatures, but should never be kept in areas that are not climate controlled such as garages or attics.

Birch Silhouette I

Humidity should be controlled in a low-moderate range. Extremely low humidity can cause pieces to dry out and crack, while high humidity can encourage bacterial growth and deterioration of the work.

Insects also thrive in warm, humid environments, possibly nesting or feeding on your favorite piece of art.

Minimize the effects of temperature and humidity by carefully selecting your display locations. Do not mount art pieces on exterior walls or walls through which pipes run.

Also avoid displaying art in bathrooms or kitchens.

Make sure that your pieces are well away from fireplaces or heaters as well. Consider using a dehumidifier if you live in a humid climate.

Dust, Dirt and Oils

The best way to protect your artworks from dust, dirt and oils is to properly frame and mount them.

Professional framing is highly recommended. Proper mounting on acid free board is important, as is the use of UV blocking glass.

The art should not come into direct contact with any part of the frame or mount, and it should be fully encased.

If your piece cannot be framed or enclosed, be extremely cautious about handling it.

Gloves can help to protect the piece from the oils in your skin.

Animals and children should be kept away from the piece as well. Regular dusting and gentle cleaning can help to keep the piece looking its best, but never use invasive methods or household cleaning products.

Damage

Care should be taken to avoid possible damage to your artworks. If your pieces are mounted on the wall, they should be properly mounted with professional frame hooks.

If you live in an earthquake zone, consider using earthquake resistant mounts.

Sculptures and other pieces can be heavy and unstable. Be sure that the piece is firmly mounted on a stable base.

Museum wax can help hold items in place without causing damage. If the piece is particularly heavy or you have children or pets, consider fastening the base to the floor.

Preserving your artwork at home need not be difficult or expensive.

Follow the tips above and always ask for professional guidance if needed. With a bit of effort, you can help minimize the risks to your prized possessions.

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