Whether it’s an original painting, a limited edition print, a favourite photograph or a treasured family keepsake, proper care can make all the difference to how well it stands the test of time.
While no artwork lasts forever without some ageing, the right framing and a few simple precautions can help preserve its condition for many years.
Here are some of the best ways to protect your artwork.
Choose the Right Frame
A frame isn’t just there to make artwork look good.
A professionally made, bespoke frame provides protection against dust, accidental damage and everyday wear while supporting the artwork correctly.
Choosing a handcrafted, made-to-measure frame ensures your artwork fits perfectly and receives the care it deserves.
Consider UV-Protective Glazing
Sunlight is one of the biggest causes of fading.
Over time, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can affect colours, paper and canvas, even when changes aren’t immediately noticeable.
UV-protective glazing helps reduce this damage, making it a worthwhile investment for artwork that’s valuable or particularly sentimental.
Keep Artwork Out of Direct Sunlight
Even with specialist glazing, it’s best to avoid hanging artwork in direct sunlight whenever possible.
Choosing a shaded wall or a room with indirect natural light can significantly extend the life of your artwork.
Avoid Damp or Humid Areas
Excess moisture can damage artwork over time.
Bathrooms, kitchens and poorly ventilated rooms often experience changes in humidity that may affect paper, canvas and framing materials.
Displaying artwork in a stable environment helps preserve both the artwork and the frame.
Use Conservation or Museum Framing for Valuable Pieces
Not every piece requires specialist framing, but some certainly benefit from it.
Conservation framing uses acid-free, conservation-grade materials designed to minimise deterioration over time.
Museum framing offers the highest level of protection using premium archival materials and specialist glazing, making it ideal for artwork that’s valuable, rare or irreplaceable.
Handle Artwork Carefully
Whenever you’re moving artwork, avoid touching the surface wherever possible.
Hold framed pieces securely from both sides and place them on clean, stable surfaces during transport.
Even small knocks or scratches can become difficult to repair.
Keep Frames Clean
Dust your frames regularly using a soft, dry cloth.
Avoid using household cleaning sprays directly on the frame or glazing, as some products can damage finishes or leave residue behind.
If your frame requires more thorough cleaning, seek professional advice before using specialist products.
Store Artwork Properly
If you aren’t displaying a piece straight away, store it somewhere clean, dry and away from extreme temperatures.
Avoid basements, lofts and garages where moisture and temperature fluctuations are more common.
Proper storage is just as important as proper framing.
Invest in Quality Framing
One of the best ways to protect artwork is to have it professionally framed from the outset.
High-quality materials, expert craftsmanship and the correct framing techniques all help reduce the risk of damage while ensuring your artwork looks its best.
It’s an investment that often pays for itself over time.
Looking After What Matters Most
Whether your artwork is valuable, sentimental or simply something you love looking at every day, protecting it properly helps ensure it can be enjoyed for years to come.
At The Framers, we create handcrafted, made-to-measure frames designed to protect and beautifully display everything from paintings and prints to photographs, certificates and treasured keepsakes.
If you’d like advice on the best way to protect your artwork, we’d be delighted to help you choose the right framing solution for your piece. Talk to us today.
