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10 tips: How to care for your Acrylic Paintings

September 19, 2023 Cheryl Johnson


Cheryl Johnson’s Acrylic paintings are vibrant and versatile works of art filled with color and movement. Care for them as you would fine furniture or antiques. They are priceless.

Acrylic paintings are dynamic and adaptable pieces of artwork; however, their aesthetic appeal and durability can deteriorate over time if not appropriately maintained. Whether one has procured a masterpiece or crafted one personally, it is imperative to adhere to these recommended protocols to guarantee the preservation of the acrylic paintings' immaculate state for an extended period.

  • Avoid direct sunlight
    Acrylic paintings are sensitive to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause fading and damage the pigments. Display your artwork in a well-lit room but away from windows or use UV-filtered glass to protect it from harmful rays.

  • It is imperative to maintain a dust-free environment for the storage of acrylic paintings in order to minimize the accumulation of dirt. 

  • Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the display or storage temperature remains below the standard room temperature to prevent any further softening of the paint film.



  • Control the environment
    Extreme changes in temperature and humidity can cause acrylic paintings to warp or crack. Maintain a stable environment with moderate temperature and humidity levels (around 68-75°F or 20-24°C and 40-50% humidity).

  • Keep Your Painting Clean
    Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface of your acrylic painting over time. Gently dust the artwork with a soft, clean brush or a microfiber cloth regularly to keep it clean without causing any damage.


  • Frame your painting
    Framing your acrylic painting not only enhances its appearance but also offers protection. Use a frame that complements the artwork, and ensure it is deep enough to prevent the glass from touching the painted surface.

  • Handle with care
    When moving or transporting your acrylic painting, always handle it with extreme care. Avoid touching the painted surface directly, and use proper packing materials to protect the artwork.

  • Avoid humidity and moisture
    Moisture is an acrylic painting's enemy. Avoid hanging your artwork in places prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens, as it may lead to mold growth or paint damage.

  • Choose appropriate varnish
    Applying a varnish to your acrylic painting not only adds a protective layer but also enhances the colors and sheen. Opt for a removable varnish and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

  • Keep away from chemicals
    Acrylic paintings are sensitive to chemicals, so keep them away from household cleaners, solvents, or aerosols. If you need to clean the painting, use a damp cloth with water only and perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area first.

  • Rotate your art
    If you have a collection of acrylic paintings, consider rotating them every few months. This will help prevent uneven exposure to light and maintain their colors more evenly.

  • Store with care
    If you ever need to store your acrylic painting, ensure it's in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment. Use acid-free materials, and avoid stacking paintings on top of each other to prevent potential damage.

By following these ten best practices, you can ensure that your acrylic paintings retain their brilliance and beauty, preserving the value and enjoyment of your cherished artwork for generations to come. Proper care is an investment in the longevity and appreciation of your acrylic masterpieces.


Summary

Caring for Acrylic Paintings Acrylic paintings have become a significant part of the permanent collections of museums and art galleries.

Since the introduction of artists' acrylic paint in the 1950s, it has dominated the arts and crafts market and has been accepted by artists as a viable alternative to oil paint. However, the behavior and physical and chemical properties of acrylics as a painting medium are different from oil paint, which warrants distinct guidelines for their care. It is important to note that some traditional conservation methods can be harmful to acrylic paintings. 

The aging characteristics of acrylic paintings are just beginning to be understood, and at present, preventative care seems to be the best care for acrylic paintings. 

There are two groups of acrylic paints used in the fine arts: solvent-based and water-based. Solvent-based acrylic paints, such as Magna, are soluble in mineral spirits, but few artists have used them. 

Common water-based acrylic paint and acrylic emulsion paint are water-soluble, but once dried, acrylic paint is not water-soluble. Acrylics dry in less than thirty minutes, while oil does not become dry to the touch for 48 hours. Acrylic paint dries differently from oil paint.

 Acrylic paint "dries" by evaporation of solvent or water, while oil paints dry by the interaction with oxygen from the air with their binder and evaporation of solvent. 

Acrylic films are not as hard as oil films, and the surfaces of the soft acrylic films hold onto dust and dirt. The paint may even flow around the particles, over time, so that they are incorporated into the film. 

A variety of additives are added to the acrylic paint to achieve a desirable working. Examples of these additives are thickeners, stabilizers, preservatives, surfactants, coalescing solvents, and plasticizers. These additives can affect the behavior and properties of the acrylic paint, and therefore, must be taken into consideration when caring for acrylic paintings.

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Comment

Sarah Sue Said: I Enjoyed all your tips, I agree ... .Light and humidity move your paintings around, don’t stack, all your information is valuable. Thank You

Sarah Sue SEPTEMBER 1, 2023


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Cheryl Johnson is a contemporary
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