Art Print Care & Handling Guide


Congratulations on your new artwork! To ensure your print remains as vibrant and beautiful as the day it arrived, please follow these professional handling and care instructions.


 


 

1. The Unboxing

If your print arrived in a mailing tube, it has been rolled for its protection.

  • Be patient:
    Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching the paper to avoid transferring natural oils or dirt.

  • The gravity method:
     Carefully remove the print from the tube. Place it on a clean, flat, dry surface. Lay the protective tissue paper over the face of the print and place a few smooth, heavy objects (like large books) on the corners.

  • Avoid force:
    Let the print flatten naturally over     24–48 hours. Never try to back-roll the print against the curl, as this can crease the paper or crack the ink.




2. Handling with Care

Art paper is delicate and can be easily kinked or scratched.

  • Edges only:
    Always pick up the print by the edges or corners using both hands. Avoid grasping the centre of the print, as this can cause permanent crescent-shaped creases.

  • Pro tip:
    If you have them, wearing clean, white cotton gloves is the gold standard for handling fine art.




3. Framing Your Art

Framing is the best way to protect your investment from dust, moisture, and accidental damage. Take a look at this framing guide with 2 simple options to frame your art at home.

  • Acid-free materials:
    Ensure your frame uses acid-free matting and backing. Low-quality materials can yellow the paper over time.

  • Stay off the glass:
    If possible, use a mat (mount) so the print doesn't touch the glass directly. This prevents moisture traps that can cause the print to stick to the glass over time.




4. Choosing the Right Spot

Where you hang your art is just as important as how you frame it.

  • Try to avoid direct sunlight:
    Even with high-quality archival inks, prolonged exposure to direct UV light can cause colours to fade over years. But if your heart is set on a sunny spot, look into frames with UV protection glass.

  • Check the humidity:
    Avoid hanging prints in bathrooms or directly in front of heaters/AC units. Rapid changes in temperature and moisture can cause the paper to wave or ripple.




5. Cleaning

  • Dust only:
    If your print is framed, clean the glass with a microfibre cloth.

  • No liquids:
    Never use water or cleaning sprays directly on the print itself, as this will damage the ink and paper fibres.