Essential Tips for Framing and Protecting Your Pastel Paintings
- Bob Palmerton
- 3 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Pastel paintings have a unique charm with their soft textures and vibrant colors. Yet, they require special care to maintain their beauty over time. Unlike oil or acrylic paintings, pastel works are delicate and prone to smudging, fading, and damage from environmental factors. Proper framing and protection are crucial to preserve your pastel artwork for years to come. This guide offers practical advice on how to frame and protect your pastel paintings effectively.
Choosing the Right Materials for Framing
The first step in protecting a pastel painting is selecting the right framing materials. Not all frames and glass types are suitable for pastel art.
Use Acid-Free Matting
Acid-free mats prevent the artwork from yellowing or deteriorating over time. They create a barrier between the painting and the frame, reducing the risk of damage from acidic materials.
Select a Deep Mat
Pastel paintings have a textured surface that can easily touch the glass if the mat is too thin. A deep mat or spacer ensures there is enough distance between the artwork and the glass, preventing smudging.
Choose UV-Protective Glass or Acrylic
Exposure to sunlight can cause pastel colors to fade. UV-protective glass or acrylic filters harmful ultraviolet rays, preserving the vibrancy of your painting. Acrylic is lighter and less prone to breaking but can scratch more easily than glass.
Consider Non-Reflective Glass
Non-reflective glass reduces glare, making it easier to view the painting from different angles without distracting reflections.
Preparing the Pastel Painting for Framing
Before framing, take steps to prepare the pastel painting to minimize damage.
Fixative Application
Using a fixative is a bit controversial, as it can darken and alter the colors. Use a workable fixative spray designed for pastels. This helps bind the pastel particles to the paper, reducing smudging. Apply fixative in a well-ventilated area, holding the can about 12 inches away from the surface. Avoid over-spraying.
Handle with Clean Hands or Gloves
Oils and dirt from your hands can damage the pastel surface. Always handle the painting with clean hands or cotton gloves.
Avoid Touching the Painted Surface
When moving or positioning the artwork, hold it by the edges or the backing board to prevent accidental smudges.
Mounting Techniques for Stability
Proper mounting keeps the pastel painting flat and secure inside the frame.
Use Archival Mounting Tape
Attach the artwork to a backing board with acid-free, archival-quality tape. This tape won’t yellow or damage the paper over time.
Avoid Adhesives on the Painted Surface
Never apply glue or tape directly on the pastel surface. Instead, mount the painting by its edges or on the back.
Choose a Sturdy Backing Board
Use a rigid, acid-free backing board to support the painting and prevent bending or warping. A spacer is ideal to provide a gap to collect any loose pastel, rather than having it fall onto the mat. Sanded papers as a pastel surface do a great job keeping the pastel clinging to the surface.
Framing Tips for Long-Term Protection
Once the painting is mounted and ready, framing it properly will protect it from environmental damage.
Seal the Frame
After placing the painting inside the frame, seal the back with frame sealing tape or kraft paper. This keeps out dust, insects, and moisture.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Hang the framed pastel painting away from direct sunlight or strong artificial light to prevent fading.
Control Humidity and Temperature
Pastel paintings are sensitive to humidity and temperature changes. Keep the artwork in a stable environment, ideally between 40-60% humidity and moderate temperatures.
Regular Cleaning
Clean the glass or acrylic gently with a soft cloth. Avoid spraying cleaner directly on the glass; instead, spray on the cloth to prevent moisture from seeping inside the frame.
Display and Storage Considerations
How you display and store your pastel paintings also affects their longevity.
Use Proper Hanging Hardware
Secure the frame with sturdy hooks or wall anchors to prevent falls.
Rotate Artwork Occasionally
If you have multiple pastel paintings, rotate them periodically to reduce prolonged exposure to light and environmental factors.
Store Unframed Pastels Carefully
If you need to store pastel paintings before framing, place them between sheets of acid-free paper and keep them flat in a dry, dark place.
Repair and Maintenance
Even with the best care, pastel paintings may require occasional maintenance.
Consult a Professional Conservator
For any damage such as tears, fading, or smudging, seek advice from a professional art conservator experienced with pastels.
Avoid DIY Repairs on the Surface
Do not attempt to fix smudges or color loss yourself, as this can worsen the damage.
Taking the time to frame and protect your pastel paintings properly ensures they remain vibrant and intact for years. Using acid-free materials, UV-protective glass, and careful mounting techniques creates a safe environment for your artwork. Remember to control light exposure and humidity, and handle your paintings with care. These steps will help you enjoy your pastel art while preserving its delicate beauty.
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