Print care

Handmade works of art on paper are fragile, but can easily be protected from any kind of damage with a little bit of knowledge and effort. Proper care of the art prints is required to keep it safe and prolong its life.

Let's have a look at the ways in which we can take proper care of handmade prints in order to keep the quality of those prints intact.

• Whenever possible do not touch any area on the page where the pigment ink has been laid down. This is true for all paper and print types. The matte papers which have high density and the area with smooth tonality. 

• keep out of direct sunlight (especially south-facing light) and high-intensity artificial light. If you decide to frame your print, look into using UV protection glass/plexiglass. If not exposed to extreme light, prints will not become excessively faded or yellowed.

• When handling prints on paper, you should try and touch the paper as little as possible, and avoid touching the image area entirely. If you need to handle your print, use both hands and hold it by opposite corners (very gently) to avoid creasing. Also, try to hold from the edges and not touch the printed part too much.

• If your prints are not on display, the best way to keep them safe and looking great is to store them flat (horizontal) inside of a flat file or a specifically designed, archival box or rigid folder. Avoid rolling or folding the paper for extended periods as the fibers can be stressed, stretched or broken and creases are extremely difficult if not impossible to remove after they have set in the paper. The work should be protected from light, dirt and humidity while being stored.

To conclude, I know this can seem like a lot of information at once, but with proper knowledge and care, your fine art prints will last for generations. I hope this information has shed some light on actionable steps you can take to keep your prints safe, secure and looking great!