How to Care for Your Wildlife Art (Originals & Prints)
How to Care for Your Wildlife Art
Art lasts longest when it’s displayed and cleaned the right way. Here’s a simple guide for both originals and fine-art prints, so your new piece from Arco’s Art Studio stays bright and crisp for decades.
Quick Care Checklist
- ✅ Avoid direct sun and hot spots (over radiators or fireplaces).
- ✅ Use UV-protective glazing (glass or acrylic) and acid-free mats.
- ✅ Dust gently with a clean, dry microfiber cloth—no sprays or water.
- ✅ Control humidity ~40–55%; keep away from bathrooms and kitchens.
- ✅ Store prints flat in archival sleeves with a backing board.
Display & Light
- Sunlight: Direct sun can fade pigments. Hang pieces on walls that don’t get direct rays.
- Indoor lighting: Modern LED bulbs are safest; avoid high-heat halogens.
- Heat & moisture: Don’t hang above heaters or in steamy rooms—temperature swings stress paper and varnish.
Tip: If a room must get sun, combine UV glazing with window UV film or sheer curtains for extra protection.
Framing the Right Way
- Glazing: Choose UV-filtering glass or UV acrylic (lighter and shatter-resistant).
- Matting: Use acid-free (archival) mat to keep artwork off the glazing and prevent acid burn.
- Backing: Acid-free foam board or mat board; avoid raw cardboard.
- Originals on canvas/board: Frame with a dust cover on back; add bumpers so the frame “breathes.”
Cleaning & Care
- Framed pieces: Dust the frame lightly; clean glazing with a soft cloth. Don’t spray cleaner directly—spray the cloth first and keep moisture away from mat edges.
- Unframed prints: Handle with clean, dry hands; hold by the edges. If needed, gently dust with a dry, soft brush.
Never: use water, household cleaners, or magic erasers on the art surface.
Storage (for prints & spare pieces)
- Flat & supported: Store flat in polypropylene sleeves or glassine with an acid-free backing board.
- Cool, dry, dark: Aim for ~40–55% humidity; avoid basements/attics.
- Separate layers: Use interleaving paper to prevent scuffs.
Moving & Shipping
- Use corner protectors and a rigid sandwich (backing board + art + board).
- Wrap glazing with painter’s tape “X” to minimize shattering risks.
- Cushion well; keep packages upright and labeled FRAGILE – ARTWORK.
FAQ
Does UV glass change the look?
Quality UV glazing is clear and won’t add a noticeable tint.
Mat or no mat for prints?
A mat creates breathing space from the glazing and looks great—recommended.
Can I hang art in a bathroom?
Prolonged humidity isn’t ideal. If you do, ensure great ventilation and UV glazing.
How often should I dust?
Once a month is plenty. Gentle and dry is the key.
What if my print curls?
Lay it between clean boards under light, even weight for a day or two.
Keep Your Art Safe & Beautiful