How to Store and Care for Art Prints
Keeping Them Perfect for Years
How to Store and Care for Art Prints — Keeping Them Perfect for Years
A well-made art print — particularly an archival giclée print on quality fine art paper — can last generations if cared for correctly. The enemy of art prints is not time itself but the specific threats that time brings: UV light, humidity, temperature fluctuation, physical damage, and incorrect storage.
At Olive et Oriel, we produce prints designed to last — but the best production in the world is only as good as the care the print receives after it leaves facilities.
Caring for Displayed Art Prints
The primary threat to displayed art prints is UV light. The two most effective interventions are UV-protective framing (UV glass or acrylic) and keeping art out of direct sunbeams. North-facing walls in Australia receive the most intense afternoon sun — be particularly careful with art placement here.
Humidity is the second major threat. Fluctuating humidity causes fine art paper to expand and contract, which over time creates waviness. Aim for consistent humidity between 40-60% relative humidity. Avoid hanging art in bathrooms or on exterior walls prone to condensation.
Learn About Our Print ProcessCleaning and Storing Art Prints Correctly
Cleaning displayed prints should be gentle. A soft, dry microfibre cloth removes surface dust from framing glass or acrylic. Never spray cleaning products directly onto art. For prints behind glass or acrylic, ensure any moisture from cleaning doesn't run behind the frame onto the print.
Store unframed prints flat — never rolled long-term, as this can create permanent curl that's difficult to reverse. Wrap in acid-free tissue paper and place in a flat, sealed archival box if possible. Store in a cool, dry, dark environment.
For framed prints in storage, store vertically (standing upright) rather than flat-stacked — the weight of stacking can damage frames and glass. Place padding between stored frames to prevent scratching.
Storing Art Prints Safely
Standard cardboard and tissue paper contains acids that can migrate into paper over time, causing yellowing and degradation. Acid-free materials are chemically stable and won't harm the print.
Our prints are produced with archival pigment inks on quality substrates, rated for well over 100 years when properly displayed and cared for.
Every piece is produced at our two manufacturing facilities on of NSW — crafting Australian wall art since 2015. We deliver to over 40 countries worldwide, with custom sizing available on all prints. Over a decade of experience, every order ships within 24 hours with our satisfaction guarantee.
How should I store unframed art prints?
Store flat (not rolled long-term), wrapped in acid-free tissue paper, in a sealed flat box. Keep in a cool, dry, dark environment.
How do I clean a framed art print?
Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth on the frame and glass/acrylic surface. Never spray cleaning products directly onto art.
Can humidity damage art prints?
Yes — fluctuating humidity causes paper to expand and contract, potentially causing cockling (waviness) over time. Aim for 40-60% relative humidity for displayed art.
How long do Olive et Oriel prints last?
Produced with archival pigment inks on quality substrates, our prints are rated for well over 100 years when properly displayed and cared for.
Is it okay to roll and store fine art prints?
Short-term rolling is fine for transport, but long-term storage rolled can cause permanent curl. Store flat for long periods.
What is acid-free storage and why does it matter?
Standard cardboard and tissue paper contains acids that can migrate into paper over time, causing yellowing and degradation. Acid-free materials are chemically stable and won't harm the print.
