Article: How to Care for Artistic Prints: A Complete Guide
How to Care for Artistic Prints: A Complete Guide
Table of Contents
- Understanding Your Artistic Prints and Their Needs
- How to Protect Art Prints from Fading
- Framing Art Prints with UV Glass for Maximum Protection
- How to Clean Art Prints Safely
- How to Store Art Prints Properly
- Managing Environmental Conditions for Your Art
- Handling and Display Best Practices
- What to Do After Accidental Damage
- Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: October 14, 2026
Understanding Your Artistic Prints and Their Needs
Knowing what your prints are made from is the first step toward protecting them.
Most prints fall into three categories. Original paintings are one-of-a-kind works created by hand. Limited-edition prints are reproductions made in small batches, often numbered and signed. Open-edition prints have no quantity limits.
Each type needs different care. Original paintings require the most careful handling because they cannot be replaced. Limited-edition prints hold value, so preservation matters aesthetically and financially.
At Kerry Munns Artlife, we create canvas prints using poly-cotton blends and water-based HP Latex inks with UV protection built in.
How to Protect Art Prints from Fading
Fading is one of the most common threats to how to care for artistic prints. Light damage happens gradually and often goes unnoticed until significant colour loss occurs.
Positioning Away from Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight is the primary cause of fading: UV rays break down the pigments and inks that give prints their vibrant colours.
Keep prints away from windows that receive direct sun; even a few hours of afternoon sunlight daily can fade colours over months and years.
North-facing walls are ideal, receiving steady, gentle light. East-facing walls get gentler morning sun. West and south-facing walls receive the strongest afternoon light and should be avoided for valuable artwork.
Consider the season too: winter's low-angle sunlight travels deeper into rooms, while summer's higher-angle sun may miss areas that seemed safe in winter.
Choosing the Right Framing Materials and UV Glass
How you frame your print matters as much as where you display it. Standard glass offers no UV protection; UV glass, also called conservation or museum glass, filters harmful rays.
UV glass blocks 99% of ultraviolet light while letting visible light through, protecting the print without darkening the image.
The frame itself should be acid-free. Wood frames from sustainable sources work well; avoid cheap particle board or materials that off-gas chemicals, since acidic materials cause yellowing and brittleness over time.
Use acid-free backing paper or board behind your print. Never use newspaper or cardboard, which contain acids that migrate into the print.
Framing Art Prints with UV Glass for Maximum Protection
Framing with UV glass transforms how to care for artistic prints by creating a protective barrier, especially for prints displayed long-term.
UV glass absorbs ultraviolet radiation before it reaches your print, while visible light passes through normally so the image looks unchanged.
Kerry Munns Artlife canvas prints come with solid wooden frames from renewable sources, 4 cm deep, and a matte or satin poly-cotton canvas that resists scratching and warping.
The glazing (glass or acrylic) should sit slightly away from the print surface.
Consider your room's conditions when choosing between glass and acrylic. Glass is heavier and more scratch-resistant but can break.
How to Clean Art Prints Safely
Cleaning your prints is necessary but must be done carefully. Gentle cleaning restores clarity without damaging the artwork.
Dry Cleaning Methods for Routine Maintenance
Dry cleaning is the safest approach for most prints; start here before considering any wet methods.
Use a soft brush or microfibre cloth to remove dust.
Microfibre cloths trap dust without scratching and work on both glass and print surfaces. Avoid paper towels or tissues, which scratch and leave fibres behind.
For framed prints, clean the glass first, then the frame.
For unframed canvas prints, use only a dry microfibre cloth.
For stubborn dust, try a soft art eraser, rubbing gently in small circles. Test on an inconspicuous corner first.
What to Avoid When Cleaning
Many common cleaning products damage prints. Understanding what not to use is as important as knowing what to use.
Never use household, window, or all-purpose cleaners on prints; their chemicals strip colour or leave residue. Never spray cleaner directly onto a print or frame, and never use abrasive cloths, paper towels, or scouring pads.
Avoid water unless absolutely necessary, and only on framed prints with sealed glass. Never use hot water or steam, which can warp paper and canvas. Never scrub or apply pressure. Light, gentle strokes only.
Don't use commercial art cleaners unless formulated for your print type. When in doubt, stick to dry methods.
How to Store Art Prints Properly
Storage protects prints when you're not displaying them. Proper packing and conditions prevent damage during moves, seasonal storage, or long-term archiving.
Preparing Prints for Storage
Before storing prints, ensure they're completely clean and dry; trapped dust or moisture can cause staining or mould growth.
For unframed canvas prints, wrap them with the painted side facing inward, using acid-free tissue paper against the print, then kraft paper or acid-free cardboard.
For paper prints, place them between acid-free tissue sheets before wrapping. Never use regular paper, whose acids migrate into the print.
Remove any plastic wrapping. Plastic traps moisture and can stick to prints in humid conditions. Acid-free paper and cardboard are better choices.
Step-by-Step Packing and Storage Instructions
Follow these steps to pack prints safely:
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- Gather materials: Acid-free tissue, kraft paper, acid-free cardboard boxes, bubble wrap (optional), and tape
- Clean the print: Dust gently with a microfibre cloth and let it dry completely
- Wrap the print: Place acid-free tissue on both sides, then wrap with kraft paper
- Pad the frame: Add bubble wrap around framed pieces if they'll be stacked or moved
- Label clearly: Mark boxes with "FRAGILE" and "ARTWORK" so handlers know to take care
- Choose storage location: Select a cool, dry place away from basements (moisture) and attics (heat)
- Store flat: Lay prints flat in boxes rather than standing them upright
- Don't stack heavily: Limit stacking to 3-4 prints maximum to avoid pressure damage
Store prints in a climate-controlled space if possible; a bedroom closet beats a garage or shed. Avoid areas prone to temperature swings or humidity changes.
| Storage Consideration | Best Practice | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cool, dry closet or spare room | Prevents moisture and heat damage |
| Wrapping | Acid-free paper and cardboard | Stops chemical damage from materials |
| Stacking | Maximum 3-4 prints flat | Reduces pressure and warping risk |
| Orientation | Flat, not upright | Prevents bending and frame stress |
| Duration | Check every 6-12 months | Catches emerging problems early |
Managing Environmental Conditions for Your Art
Temperature, humidity, and moisture affect print longevity as much as light and handling do. Stable conditions preserve artwork far better than fluctuating ones.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Aim for stable temperatures between 15°C and 21°C.
Humidity should stay between 30% and 50%: too dry and paper becomes brittle, too humid and mould grows.
Avoid placing prints near heating vents, air conditioning units, or radiators, which create micro-climates with rapid temperature shifts. A print near a heater might swing 10°C each day, stressing the materials.
Seasonal changes are normal: a print at 18°C in winter and 22°C in summer experiences gradual, predictable shifts artwork can tolerate. The problem is rapid daily swings.
Preventing Water Damage and Moisture
Water damage is permanent and often irreversible, so prevention is far easier than repair.
Never display prints in bathrooms or kitchens where steam and splashing occur, never store them in basements (even finished ones) because ground moisture seeps in, and avoid windowsills where condensation forms on cold mornings.
If a print gets wet, act quickly.
For canvas prints, lay them flat with the painted side up and air-dry in a well-ventilated space. Never hang wet canvas, as water pools at the bottom.
Prevent future water damage by checking for leaks, using dehumidifiers in damp rooms, and keeping prints away from water sources.
Handling and Display Best Practices
How you handle and display prints affects their lifespan. Careless handling causes creases, tears, and fingerprints no amount of cleaning can fix.
Safe Handling Techniques
Always wash your hands before touching artwork, since oils and dirt transfer to prints instantly.
Support the entire print when moving it.
Never touch the painted or printed surface; hold only the edges or back. Fingerprints are nearly impossible to remove without risking damage.
Carry prints slowly and deliberately; rushing causes accidents.
When hanging prints, use picture hooks rated for your frame's weight to prevent falls, and a level to hang straight.
Choosing the Best Location to Display Your Prints
The right location combines protection with visibility. You want to enjoy your prints without damaging them.
Choose walls away from direct sunlight; north-facing walls are ideal. If you must use a sunny wall, hang sheer curtains to filter light.
Avoid high-traffic areas where prints might get bumped; a hallway where children run is riskier than a quiet bedroom.
Keep prints away from moisture sources. Never hang them above a sink, toilet, or bathtub.
Display prints at comfortable eye level, typically 1.5 to 1.8 metres from the floor to the artwork's centre. This height feels natural and discourages touching.
What to Do After Accidental Damage
Accidents happen. A print gets knocked off the wall. A glass frame cracks. Water spills. Knowing how to respond minimises long-term damage.
For torn paper or canvas: Don't attempt repairs yourself unless experienced; a professional conservator can often repair tears invisibly.
For cracked or broken glass: Remove the frame carefully and replace the glass.
For water damage: Follow the drying steps in the humidity section. Don't apply heat or speed drying.
For fading caused by sun exposure: Fading cannot be reversed.
For stains or marks: Resist cleaning them yourself.
Caring for artistic prints is about prevention and gentle handling.
At Kerry Munns Artlife, we create canvas prints designed to last. Combine our quality prints with the care practices in this guide, and you're investing in artwork that will brighten your home for years. Shop Wearable Art
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you protect art prints from fading?
The most effective way to protect art prints from fading is to display them away from direct sunlight and UV exposure. Use framing with UV-protective glass or acrylic glazing, which blocks up to 99% of harmful rays. Keep prints in areas with stable, moderate light levels, and avoid rooms with south-facing windows. If your prints feature water-based inks like those in Kerry Munns' canvas prints, UV protection is especially important for maintaining vibrant colours over time.
What's the best way to clean an art print without damaging it?
Clean art prints using dry methods only: gently dust with a soft microfibre cloth or soft-bristled brush, moving in one direction. Never use water, household cleaners, chemical solvents, or spray cleaners, as these can damage the print surface and cause staining or ripples. For framed prints, clean the glass separately. Always ensure your hands are clean or wear cotton gloves before handling. If dust is stubborn, use a barely damp cloth on the frame only, never the artwork itself.
How should you store unframed art prints?
Store unframed art prints flat in acid-free archival boxes, separated by acid-free tissue paper to prevent contact and friction. Keep them in a cool, dry location away from damp areas, extreme temperature changes, and direct sunlight. Avoid basements or attics where humidity and temperature fluctuate. If storing vertically, use a portfolio case or flat file drawer. Never stack prints without protection, and keep them away from heat sources, pipes, and areas prone to water damage. Check stored prints periodically for any signs of moisture or pest damage.
Should art prints be framed behind glass?
Framing art prints behind glass or acrylic glazing offers significant protection from dust, moisture, and UV damage. UV-protective glass is the superior choice, blocking harmful rays that cause fading and discolouration. Acrylic glazing is lighter and safer for larger prints but may scratch more easily. Framing also protects the print surface from direct handling and environmental contaminants. For valuable or original prints, conservation-grade framing materials and UV glass are worth the investment to ensure longevity and colour preservation.
Written by Kerry Munns
