HOW SHOULD I STORE MY ART?
Ensure Your Canvases Last: Best Storage Practices
To safeguard your canvases, it's essential to store them properly. Follow these tips to avoid unpleasant surprises and preserve your artistic materials effectively.
Shield from Direct Sunlight Prolong the lifespan of your canvases by keeping them away from direct sunlight. Exposure to the sun's rays can weaken the canvas, particularly if it's primed. Store your canvases in a location where they won't be subjected to direct sunlight to maintain their integrity.
Store Vertically Avoid laying your canvases flat on surfaces, as this can cause material to loosen and sag over time, leaving impressions of stretcher bars on the fabric. Storing canvases upright not only prevents this but also minimizes the accumulation of dust and particles on the surface. Additionally, vertical storage conserves valuable studio or storage space.
Choose a Dry, Cool Environment Protect your canvases from potential damage by storing them in a dry, cool space. Moist environments can lead to mold growth, which is detrimental to your artistic materials. Similarly, excessive heat can harm canvases, regardless of whether they're primed. Ensure your storage area maintains a cool temperature to preserve the quality of your canvases.
Elevate Off the Floor Keep your canvases elevated off the floor to safeguard against unforeseen accidents such as spills or pest infestations. Utilize 2x4 lengths of lumber or invest in a storage rack system to elevate your canvases and prevent contact with the floor. Elevated storage not only protects against floor-related issues but also optimizes space, making it ideal for smaller studios.
Cover with a Light Cloth While in storage, cover your canvases with a light cloth, such as an old sheet, to shield them from dust, cobwebs, and other debris that accumulate over time. Even in closet spaces, using a cover helps maintain the cleanliness of your canvases, ensuring they're pristine and ready for your next masterpiece.
By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your canvases will remain in top condition, ready for artistic visions.
