Investing in beautiful wall art is a great way to personalize your home and add a touch of creativity to your space. Whether it’s a vibrant canvas print or a delicate paper piece, proper care is essential to keep your artwork looking its best for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for caring for both paper and canvas wall art so you can enjoy them for a long time.
1. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Both paper and canvas art are sensitive to direct sunlight. Over time, exposure to UV rays can cause colors to fade, especially with more delicate prints on paper. Canvas art, while more durable, can also experience fading or discoloration.
Tip: Hang your artwork in areas with indirect light. If placing near windows, consider UV-protective glass frames for paper art or UV-resistant varnishes for canvas prints.
2. Keep Humidity in Check
Humidity is a major enemy of artwork, especially for paper prints. High levels of moisture can cause warping, mold, or mildew growth. Canvas art can also be damaged in humid environments, leading to potential stretching or sagging.
Tip: Avoid hanging artwork in bathrooms, kitchens, or other areas prone to moisture. Ideal humidity for preserving art is around 40-50%. If humidity is a concern, using a dehumidifier can help protect your pieces.
3. Dust Regularly and Gently
Dust can accumulate on the surface of your artwork, especially canvas prints, which may have a textured surface. It’s important to clean your wall art gently to avoid damaging the print.
For Canvas Art: Use a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster to remove dust. Avoid using water or cleaning agents, as this can damage the fabric or paint.
For Paper Art: If your artwork is framed behind glass, simply wipe the glass with a microfiber cloth. Never use harsh chemicals on the glass, as they may seep in and damage the print.
4. Handle with Care
When moving or cleaning your artwork, it’s crucial to handle it carefully. Fingerprints, smudges, or oils from your hands can damage both canvas and paper art over time.
Tip: Always wash your hands before touching any artwork. For paper prints, wear cotton gloves to prevent smudges or accidental damage. Hold canvas prints by the sides of the frame, avoiding pressure on the fabric itself.
5. Protect with Framing
Framing is essential for paper art, but it can also be useful for canvas prints. A good-quality frame protects artwork from dust, dirt, and damage while giving it a polished, finished look.
For Paper Prints: Always use acid-free matting and backing to protect your print from yellowing or deteriorating over time. A frame with UV-protective glass adds an extra layer of defense against fading.
For Canvas Prints: While canvas art doesn’t require glass, you can opt to frame it without glass for added support and style. If you prefer a frameless look, consider gallery-wrapping your canvas for a clean, modern aesthetic.
6. Rotate Art in High-Traffic Areas
If you display artwork in areas where it’s more likely to be exposed to dirt, smoke, or frequent cleaning (like living rooms or dining rooms), consider rotating your pieces to prevent any one item from experiencing excessive wear.
Tip: Every few months, switch the artwork in high-traffic areas with pieces from other parts of your home. This helps distribute ex posure and keeps all your art fresh.
7. Know When to Seek Professional Help
For any damage to your artwork that seems beyond basic care—like tears, deep scratches, water damage, or discoloration—don’t attempt DIY repairs. Professional art conservators are trained to restore both canvas and paper artwork without causing further damage.
Tip: If your paper or canvas art has sentimental or high monetary value, consider scheduling regular checkups with a professional conservator.
Conclusion
Your wall art is an investment in both beauty and creativity, and with proper care, it can last a lifetime. By following these simple steps—keeping it out of direct sunlight, managing humidity, dusting carefully, and framing with care—you can preserve your paper and canvas art for years to come. Whether it’s a family favorite or a new addition to your collection, taking good care of your artwork ensures that its charm and impact remain strong in your home.
Looking for stunning wall art to elevate your space? Explore our collection of high-quality canvas and paper prints that are designed to bring personality and style to any room.