Caring for Your Cyanotype Fine Art Prints

Cyanotype prints are beautiful and unique works of art that need a little extra love to keep them looking their best. Here’s how to care for your cyanotype prints:

Handling

  • Clean Hands: Handle your prints with clean, dry hands to keep them smudge-free.

  • Gloves (Optional): If you have them, use cotton or nitrile gloves for extra protection.

  • Edges Only: Always handle your prints by the edges to avoid touching the image.

Displaying

  • Frame It: Use acid-free materials to frame your cyanotype prints.

  • UV Protection: Use UV-protective glass or acrylic in your frames to keep the colors vibrant.

  • Avoid Sunlight: Hang your prints away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

  • Stable Environment: Choose a spot with stable temperature and humidity levels.

Storing

  • Acid-Free: Store your prints in acid-free folders, sleeves, or boxes.

  • Flat Storage: Keep prints flat to avoid creases. If you must roll them, use a large tube.

  • Cool, Dry Place: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew.

Cleaning

  • Dusting: Gently dust with a soft bristled brush or use compressed air.

  • No Moisture: Avoid using water or cleaning solutions.

*PRO TIP- If your cyanotype print looks faded, simply put the print in a light tight area, such as a closet or a drawer, for 24 hours to renew the vibrancy of your piece.

Caring for Your Encaustic Wax Fine Art

Encaustic wax art is a unique and delicate medium that needs some special attention. Here’s how to care for your encaustic wax art:

Handling

  • Clean Hands: Handle with clean, dry hands to keep oils and dirt off the surface.

  • Avoid Heat: Keep away from heat sources to prevent melting or softening.

  • Support It: Always support the artwork from the bottom.

Displaying

  • Temperature Control: Display in a spot with a stable temperature, ideally between 60°F and 80°F.

  • Avoid Sunlight: Keep out of direct sunlight to avoid fading and softening.

  • Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation around the artwork.

Storing

  • Cool Environment: Store in a cool place away from sunlight and heat sources.

  • Flat Storage: Store flat if possible or upright with support.

  • Protective Cover: Cover with a clean, breathable cloth to protect from dust while allowing air circulation.

Cleaning

  • Dusting: Gently dust with a soft, dry cloth or soft bristled brush.

  • Buffing: Occasionally, you can gently buff the surface with a soft cloth to restore the natural sheen.

  • No Moisture: Keep the artwork dry.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your cyanotype and encaustic wax fine art prints for many years to come.