Care & Framing Guide

Buying original art or fine art prints is an investment — not just financially, but emotionally too. With a little care, your artwork can be enjoyed for decades to come. This guide shares simple, practical advice to help you look after your artwork and frame it in a way that suits both the piece and your space.

Caring for Original Paintings

Original paintings are robust, but they do benefit from mindful placement and handling.

Try to avoid hanging paintings in direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause colours to fade over time. Similarly, areas with high humidity or extreme temperature changes — such as bathrooms or above radiators — aren’t ideal. A consistent, dry environment helps maintain the integrity of the materials.

When handling a painting, always lift it from the sides rather than the top edge, and avoid touching the painted surface. If your artwork needs cleaning, a light dusting with a soft, dry cloth or clean brush is usually enough. Avoid using water or cleaning products, as these can damage the surface.

Caring for Fine Art Prints

Fine art prints are made using archival inks and papers, designed to last for many years when cared for properly.

As with original paintings, it’s best to keep prints out of direct sunlight. Framing prints behind glass — ideally UV-protective glass — will help preserve colour and prevent environmental damage. Keeping prints away from moisture and heat sources will also help ensure their longevity.

If your print is unframed, store it flat or upright in a protective sleeve until you’re ready to frame it.

Framing Your Artwork

Framing not only protects your artwork but also enhances how it’s experienced.

Choosing a frame is a personal decision, but neutral frames often allow the artwork to breathe. Natural wood, white, black, or soft metallic finishes tend to complement abstract work without overpowering it. For prints on paper, using a mount (or mat) helps prevent the artwork from touching the glass and gives it space to sit comfortably within the frame.

I recommend using a professional framer whenever possible. A good framer will use acid-free materials and advise on the best options for your specific piece, helping to protect it long-term.

To Frame or Not to Frame?

Some artworks are sold ready to hang, while others are intended to be framed by the collector.

If your painting arrives unframed, it’s usually because this allows you to choose a frame that suits your space. Prints are typically sold unframed to give you full flexibility over presentation. Neither option is right or wrong — it’s about what works best for you and your home.

Hanging Your Artwork

Take time to consider where your artwork will live.

A general rule is to hang artwork so that the centre sits at eye level, but this can be adjusted depending on ceiling height and furniture placement. Larger works often benefit from having space around them, allowing the painting to hold the wall rather than compete with it.

If you’re unsure, laying the artwork on the floor and living with it for a day or two can help you decide on the right spot.

Storage & Moving

If you need to store or move your artwork, wrap it carefully using acid-free paper or bubble wrap, ensuring the surface is protected. Avoid stacking artworks directly on top of one another without padding between them.

For larger or high-value pieces, professional art handlers are worth considering.

A Note From the Studio

Every artwork I make is created using professional-grade materials, chosen for longevity as well as aesthetic. I’m always happy to answer questions about care, framing, or placement — before or after purchase.

Looking after your artwork doesn’t need to be complicated. A few thoughtful choices will help ensure it continues to bring you joy for years to come.

Explore original paintings and fine art prints, or get in touch if you’d like framing advice for a specific piece.