How to Care for Your Original Oil and Acrylic Paintings

By Riesa Maree

An original painting is made to last for generations, and with a little care it will stay as beautiful as the day you brought it home. Oil and acrylic paintings are quite hardy, but a few simple habits will protect your investment and keep the colours singing.

Keep it out of direct sunlight

Strong, direct sunlight is the biggest threat to any painting. Over time it can fade colours and dry out the paint. Hang your piece on a wall that does not catch harsh afternoon sun, and it will hold its colour far longer.

Mind the humidity and heat

Paintings prefer stable conditions. Avoid hanging them above a fireplace, a heater or in a steamy bathroom. Big swings in temperature and moisture can cause the canvas to expand and contract, which is not good for the paint. A normal, comfortable room is perfect.

Dust gently

To clean an original, simply dust it now and then with a soft, dry cloth or a clean, dry, soft brush. Never use water, household cleaners or a damp cloth, as these can damage the surface. If a painting ever needs a deeper clean, ask a professional art conservator rather than trying it yourself.

Hang it safely

Use a strong hook rated for the weight of the piece, and fix it to a solid part of the wall. For larger works, two hooks give better support and keep the painting level. Check the fixings once a year, especially in a home with busy family life.

Moving and storing

If you need to move or store a painting, stand it upright rather than laying it flat, and never rest anything against its face. Wrap it in clean, soft material and, ideally, a rigid board on each side. Keep it somewhere dry and out of direct sun.

Enjoy it

Most of all, a painting is meant to be lived with and loved. Care for it gently and it will reward you with years of pleasure. If you would like to add an original to your home, you are welcome to browse my gallery.