Storing multiple unframed pieces flat to save storage space? No problem. Just make sure to use a conservation matboard that is at least two inches bigger on each side than your works in between each piece to avoid unwanted chemical reactions, acidic damage, and creasing.
How To Store Acrylic Paintings
Learn the best techniques and materials for storing acrylic paintings in this informative article. Keep your artwork safe and preserve its quality for years to come.
- How to store
- How To Store Art & Craft Supplies
(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Materials Needed
- Preparing the Paintings
- Cleaning the Paintings
- Choosing the Storage Area
- Storing Flat
- Storing Vertically
- Protective Measures
- Conclusion
Storing acrylic paintings properly is crucial to preserving their beauty and longevity. Acrylic paint, known for its quick-drying properties and vibrant colors, is widely used by artists. However, improper storage can lead to damage, including cracking, color fading, and even mold growth. To ensure your acrylic paintings stay in pristine condition, it is essential to follow the right storage techniques.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of storing acrylic paintings safely. We will discuss the materials needed, how to prepare the paintings for storage, the best storage methods, and the protective measures you can take to prevent any potential damage. Whether you are an artist storing your own paintings or someone who wants to preserve a valuable piece of art, these tips will help you store acrylic paintings effectively.
Let’s dive in and explore the steps you need to take to keep your acrylic paintings safe and well-maintained.
Materials Needed
Before you begin storing your acrylic paintings, gather the following materials:
- Acid-free archival storage boxes or portfolios: These will provide a safe and controlled environment for storing your paintings. Make sure they are made of acid-free materials to prevent any chemical reactions that could damage the artwork.
- Acid-free glassine or silicone release paper: Use these to provide a protective layer between the paintings to prevent them from sticking together or smudging.
- Soft, clean cotton gloves: Wear these gloves while handling the paintings to avoid leaving fingerprints or transferring oils onto the surface.
- Sturdy cardboard sheets or foam boards: These will be used to support the paintings and keep them flat during storage.
- Plastic wrap or shrink wrap: Use this to wrap large paintings or secure the paintings to the cardboard sheets.
- Labels and markers: Make sure to label each painting with its title, artist’s name, and any other relevant information to easily identify them later.
- Desiccant packets or silica gel: These help absorb excess moisture and prevent mold or mildew growth.
- Storage area: Find a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to store your paintings. Avoid places with extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity levels.
Having these materials on hand will ensure that you are prepared to store your acrylic paintings properly and protect them from potential damage.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
One of the main reasons why paintings deteriorate from being displayed is its exposure to light, especially direct sunlight. That’s due to the chemical reaction of most painting mediums to ultraviolet radiation.
Oil and acrylics can be pretty resilient with minimal exposure, but it’s still not worth the gamble. The colors in an oil painting ten to lighten in the sunlight and darken when stored in complete darkness. Some research currently even suggests minimal exposure to sunlight over time. Canvas can also get damaged too, so any work with an exposed area of the canvas should not be displayed where sunlight can get to it.
Watercolor is the most sensitive and can fade fast if you’re not careful. So are photos and other works on paper even if they are encased under a UV plexiglass.
Pay Attention to Humidity
Another factor that can cause a chemical reaction to your paintings is humidity. The ideal humidity level for a gallery is 55%. Using a hygrometer to measure the inherent moisture inside an enclosed space is highly recommended.
The use of other equipment such as air blowers that can improve ventilation and help control excessive moisture is also suggested.
Store Art in a Cool, Dry, Dark Place
Concerning the previous tips, the ideal place to store your art in is a cool, dry, and dark place where minimal temperature fluctuations happen. Using a pedestal fan can significantly help in cooling down an otherwise hot and humid room if you don’t have a better option.
Using blackout curtains to cover windows and other sources of light are also recommended.
