How to Care for Your Giclee Photographic Prints

According to Old Town Editions, a fine art printer in Virginia,paper prints should be treated like any other fine art prints such as etchings or serigraphs. Handle paper prints as gently as possible. When doing so, be sure that your hands are freshly washed to minimize transfer of oils from your skin. Because paper is damaged by prolonged contact with chemically unstable materials, the choice of materials for storage and exhibition is critical. Mats, folders, and storage boxes should be labeled acid-free or 100% cotton rag. Store matted works or foldered items in flat files or in appropriately sized boxes specifically designed for storing works of art or documents. Oversized objects should be stored flat whenever possible, not rolled or folded. Store unframed prints in a cool and dry environment. Warm or moist conditions accelerate deterioration and encourage mold growth and insect activity. Works should also be protected from environmental pollutants and airborne particulates

Matting and framing your paper prints with archival materials and techniques provides the best protection for your art on paper. We recommend acid-free or rag mats combined with a UV protectant glass. If you notice and yellowing or other discoloration on older framed works, this probably indicates that the materials used are not acid free.

For more detailed information on caring for and framing your giclee prints, please visit the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works at www.conservation-us.org.