Caring for your painting

• Out of direct sunlight, which fades pigments over time.
• Away from radiators, fireplaces and air vents.
• Not in bathrooms or above a stove, where steam and grease collect.
• On an inside wall where temperature and humidity stay steady.

Oils can take months to cure fully, even after the varnish. For the first few weeks, avoid touching the surface.

To dust, use a soft, dry brush (a clean make-up brush works well) and work gently from top to bottom. Never use water, damp cloths, feather dusters or cleaning sprays.

Watercolor is sensitive to water and light. Keep it behind glazing, away from damp, and out of direct sun. If you frame it yourself, use acid-free mats and UV-filtering glazing.

Carry paintings by the frame or stretcher bars, never by the canvas. To store, wrap in acid-free paper, stand upright and keep somewhere dry and cool. Never stack paintings face to face.

Small knocks, a loose corner or a mark on the surface can usually be fixed. Send us a photo before trying anything yourself, and we’ll advise.