As acrylic paints are distinctly different from other forms of paint, there are specific guidelines to care for acrylic paintings. The best way to care for acrylic paintings is to provide preventative care. Acrylic paint dries with a soft film; because of this the paint traps dirt and dust. There is no completely effective or safe process for cleaning acrylic paintings, but care can be taken to ensure the extended integrity of the piece.
Instructions
1. Handle the artwork carefully by handling the edges only. Larger pieces of paper need be supported from the back, whether they are framed or not. When you are framing a painting on paper, use an acid-free backing board. Secure the painting in place with acid-free framing tape; white artist's tape works well for this purpose. Double-sided tape works well for securing an unframed painting to the backing. If you are not framing your painting, a protective varnish can be sprayed or brushed over the painting for added protection.
2. Keep your acrylic painting out of direct sunlight or strong artificial light, as these will cause the paint to fade. Also avoid any environment that is hot or that has excessive moisture; these will harm the integrity of the paint.
3. Frame your acrylic art piece to block dirt and dust from gathering on the paint. Do not let the painting touch the glass; acrylic paint can be damaged by glass. Scrap strips of cardboard or mat board can be used as spacers between the painting and the glass. Glue the strips along the edge of the glass with craft glue, making sure the spacers are not visible. Shadow box frames are well-suited to acrylic paintings, as they are made with plenty of space between the art piece and the glass.
