Taking Good Care of Your Oil Paintings

care for oil paintings

Proper care of oil paintings is essential for their preservation.

Oil paintings bring an element of beauty to any living space, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. When you bring home oil paintings, it’s crucial to take good care of them. Often times, people overlook the easy steps needed to maintain their artwork. It’s important to remember that you need to take good care of your oil paintings.

Ways to Care for Your Oil Paintings

Taking good care of your oil paintings involves several key steps to ensure their longevity and beauty. Here are some things you can do to protect the beauty of your oil painting:

HANDLING YOUR PAINTINGS

Oil paintings should be handled with care and individually to prevent damage. Do not stack paintings when moving or storing them, as it may cause damage. Additionally, avoid leaning a painting against any sharp objects or surfaces that could scratch it. Always carry a painting by its frame, and make sure your hands are clean before handling to prevent soiling the artwork. For safe transportation, lift the painting with both hands, placing them securely at the center of each side of the frame.

DISPLAYING YOUR PAINTINGS

When hanging a painting, it’s essential to use hooks specifically made for that purpose and secure them into a wooden stud in your wall. Avoid hanging your painting directly on drywall, even if using wall anchors; a heavy painting might cause the hook to rip out and the painting to crash down. Using the right hooks will help ensure your artwork stays put, protecting both the painting and the wall from damage. Moreover, avoid using just any nail or screw as a hanger, as they could inadvertently damage your painting. Always opt for the appropriate hanging hardware to safeguard your painting from harm.

PRESERVING YOUR PAINTINGS

To preserve the vibrant colors and structure of your oil painting, it’s best to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause the paint pigments to deteriorate over time, leading to fading and a loss of vibrancy.

Position your oil painting away from sources of high heat such as radiators, hot water pipes, or fireplaces to avoid paint cracking and blistering. An ideal room temperature for preserving your artwork is between 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius).

Protect your oil painting by keeping it away from areas where there is a lot of humidity and moisture. Areas such as damp basements, attics, bathrooms, or kitchens. Humidity and moisture can lead to mold growth on your artwork, necessitating professional cleaning. Strive to keep indoor humidity levels within the range of 40% to 60%.

CLEANING YOUR PAINTINGS

Dust your painting at least twice a year using a natural-hair or Japanese brush to keep it top condition. Avoid using feather dusters or abrasive cloths, which can scratch the surface. Also, steer clear of water, sprays, and cleansers that could cause damage to the varnish or paint.

In conclusion, if your painting should ever become heavily soiled or damaged, you should have it professionally cleaned and repaired. A professional will be able to restore your artwork to its original beauty without diminishing its value. Additionally, they can provide you with invaluable information on how to properly store or display your paintings at home to preserve their condition.