How to Display Watercolor Paintings

Watercolor paintings are a captivating medium that can add a touch of charm and beauty to any space. However, displaying watercolor paintings properly can be a daunting task. From choosing the right frame to finding the perfect spot to hang them, there are many aspects to consider.

The last thing you want is to invest your time and money into creating a stunning watercolor painting only for it to fade away in obscurity due to poor display. But fear not, as we have got you covered! In this article, we will guide you through the essentials of displaying watercolor paintings and provide you with some valuable tips and tricks that will ensure your artwork shines bright for years to come.

Whether you’re an artist looking for ways to showcase your work or simply a collector eager to exhibit your treasured pieces, keep reading as we walk you through everything you need to know about displaying watercolor paintings.

Different Ways to Display Watercolor Paintings

1. Hanging on the Wall

One of the most common ways to display watercolor paintings is by hanging them on a wall. This can be done using a picture hook, nails or screws, or even adhesive strips that won’t damage the wall. When choosing a spot to hang your painting, consider the lighting and colors in the room. A well-lit area will help showcase the vibrant colors of the painting while avoiding direct sunlight will prevent fading.

Pros:

• Easily visible and accessible for everyone
• Allows for easy rotation and replacement of paintings on display
• Takes up no floor space, making it ideal for small rooms or apartments

Cons:

• Hanging multiple paintings can be time-consuming and require precise measurements for spacing and alignment
• May not work well in rooms with high humidity as moisture can seep into the paper and cause damage over time
• Potential risk of theft or damage if not properly secured or placed in an area with high traffic flow

2. Placing on an Easel

Another way to display watercolor paintings is by placing them on an easel. This method works well for smaller pieces or when you want to showcase a particular painting in a specific location such as a table, desk, or bookshelf.

Pros:

• Allows for easy viewing from different angles without having to move around the room
• Gives flexibility in placement since they don’t need to be hung from a wall
• Easels come in various sizes and styles that can complement any decor style

Cons:

• May require more floor space than hanging on the wall
• Less stable and can easily be knocked over, causing damage to the painting
• May not work well for larger or heavier paintings as they may not fit properly or risk falling off the easel

3. Framing with a Stand

Framing your watercolor painting and displaying it on a stand can add a touch of elegance to any room while also protecting the piece from damage.

Pros:

• A framed painting looks professionally finished and provides added protection against dust, dirt, and moisture.
• The display stand allows for easy placement on tables, mantles, or shelves.
• Framed paintings can be hung on walls using nails or picture hooks if desired.

Cons:

• Framing can be expensive depending on the size and style of frame chosen.
• The frame’s design may clash with the room’s decor if not selected carefully.
• The glass in the frame may reflect light that could obscure some parts of the painting depending on lighting conditions in the room.

Choosing The Right Frame For A Watercolor Painting

Choosing the right frame is an essential part of displaying a watercolor painting. The right frame should complement both the artwork and its surroundings while providing adequate protection.

Pick A Frame That Complements The Painting’s Colors:

When choosing a frame for your watercolor painting, consider selecting one that complements or contrasts with your artwork’s colors. This will help draw attention to the painting and make it stand out more.

Pick A Frame That Suits The Painting’s Style:

The right frame should also suit the painting’s style. For example, a traditional painting would require a more ornate and classic frame, while a modern piece might call for a sleeker, more minimalist design.

Consider The Size And Weight Of The Painting:

When selecting a frame, make sure to consider the size and weight of the painting. A heavier or larger painting may require a more substantial frame to support it properly and keep it from sagging over time.

Pick Quality Materials:

Choose high-quality materials that will help protect your watercolor painting from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. Opt for acid-free mats and UV-resistant glass or acrylic to prevent fading or discoloration over time.

Work With A Professional Framer:

Working with a professional framer can help ensure that you choose the right frame for your watercolor painting. They can offer guidance on selecting the right materials, colors, and styles to complement your artwork and its surroundings while providing adequate protection.

Type of Glass To Use When Framing A Watercolor Painting

Choosing the right type of glass when framing your watercolor painting is crucial in protecting it from damage caused by UV light, dust or scratches. Here are some common types of glass options available:

1. Regular Glass:

Regular glass is made from soda-lime and is commonly used in framing as it is inexpensive. However, regular glass does not offer any protection against UV light making it unsuitable for preserving delicate watercolors which tend to fade when exposed to sunlight.

Pros:

• Inexpensive compared to other types of glass.
• Easily available at most framing shops.

Cons:

• Does not protect the artwork from UV light, which can cause fading over time.
• Can easily break or scratch if not handled carefully.

2. Non-Glare Glass:

Non-glare glass, also known as anti-reflective glass, has a matte finish that minimizes glare and reflections. It is a great option if you want to minimize glare when displaying your watercolor painting.

Pros:

• Minimizes reflections and glare compared to regular glass.
• Suitable for artworks displayed in areas with high lighting or natural sunlight.

Cons:

• The matte finish can blur some of the painting’s details and colors.
• This type of glass is more expensive than regular glass but less expensive than UV-protective glazing.

3. Museum Glass:

Museum Glass is made from ultra-clear glass that offers up to 99% protection against UV light. It is the best option for preserving delicate watercolor paintings as it reduces fading and discoloration caused by UV rays.

Pros:

• Reduces up to 99% of harmful UV light exposure protecting your artwork from fading or discoloration over time.
• Maintains clarity and color accuracy allowing for easy viewing of the painting details.

Cons:

• The cost of this type of glass is significantly higher than other types of glass options available in the market.
• The weight can make it difficult to handle during installation, requiring professional assistance.

Displaying Watercolor Paintings Without a Frame

Watercolor paintings can be displayed without a frame in many creative ways, adding versatility and style to your home decor.

1. Using Clips or Hangers:

One of the easiest ways to display watercolor paintings without a frame is by using clips or hangers. Simply attach them to the top edge of the painting and hang it from a hook or nail on the wall.

Pros:

• This method is easy and inexpensive.
• Provides a modern look that can complement any room’s decor.
• Allows for quick swapping out of paintings depending on mood or season.

Cons:

• No protection against dust, moisture, UV light which may damage the painting over time.
• The edges of the paper may curl over time if not secured properly with clips or hangers.

2. Using Mounting Tape:

Mounting tape can be used to attach watercolor paintings directly onto walls, creating an unframed look that is sleek and modern.

Pros:

• This method is easy to install and remove without damaging walls or paint.
• Gives an unobstructed view of the painting without frames.

Cons:

• The tape can cause damage to delicate papers if removed incorrectly.
• No protection against UV light, dust, dirt, and moisture which could affect the quality of your artwork over time.

Properly Mounting And Matting A Watercolor Painting For Display

Mounting and matting are essential components in displaying watercolor paintings as they provide added support while also adding depth and dimension to the artwork.

1. Mounting:

Mounting involves attaching a watercolor painting onto a backing board to provide added support and prevent it from warping or sagging over time.

Pros:

• Prevents the paper from buckling, sagging, or warping over time.
• Makes it easier to frame and display since it is already mounted on a board.

Cons:

• The process can be tricky and requires careful handling of the artwork to avoid damage.
• Sometimes, the glue used in mounting may seep through the paper causing discoloration or other forms of damage if not done correctly.

2. Matting:

Matting adds an extra layer of protection between the glass and the painting while also providing an aesthetic appeal by enhancing its appearance.

Pros:

• Adds depth and dimension to your artwork making it more visually appealing.
• The matting provides an additional barrier between the glass and painting protecting against dust, dirt, moisture, and UV light exposure.

Cons:

• The cost of custom mats can quickly add up for multiple paintings requiring framing.
• If not done correctly, matting can cause discoloration or damage to delicate watercolor papers.

Best Places To Hang A Watercolor Painting In Your Home Or Office

The placement of a watercolor painting can significantly affect its visual impact on viewers. Here are some tips on where best to hang your artwork:

1. Living Room:

Living rooms are one of the most common places to hang watercolor paintings. They can be hung above couches, mantles, or even on an accent wall.

Pros:

• A well-placed painting in a living room can serve as a conversation starter for guests.
• Provides a focal point that draws attention to the artwork and complements the overall decor of the room.

2. Bedroom:

Watercolor paintings can also be hung in bedrooms, adding color and character to space.

Pros:

• Hanging art in bedrooms can create a relaxing ambiance that promotes restfulness and calmness.
• The artwork can complement various bedroom decor styles such as Minimalist, Bohemian, Modern, or Traditional.

3. Home Office:

Hanging watercolor paintings in your home office creates an inspiring ambiance that promotes creativity and productivity.

Pros:

• Adds color and character to space without being too distracting from work tasks at hand.
• The artwork can inspire creative thinking and motivate you throughout the day.

How Lighting Affects The Display Of A Watercolor Painting

Lighting is crucial when it comes to displaying watercolor paintings properly. Here are some tips on how to use lighting effectively:

1. Natural Light:

Natural light is ideal for showcasing watercolor paintings since it brings out their vibrant colors and textures.

Pros:

• Natural light enhances the painting’s color accuracy making it more visually appealing to viewers.
• The sunlight can reflect off the painting creating interesting shadows that add depth and dimension to the artwork.

Cons:

• Direct sunlight can cause fading or discoloration of the painting over time.
• The intensity of natural light can be too bright, making it difficult to view certain details in the painting.

2. Artificial Light:

Artificial light is an excellent option for showcasing watercolor paintings, especially when natural light is not available.

Pros:

• Artificial lights give you control over the lighting intensity and direction, allowing you to highlight specific areas of your artwork.
• You can choose different types of artificial lights such as track lighting, sconces or floor lamps depending on your decor style and preference.

Cons:

• Poor quality bulbs or illumination could distort the colors or details of a watercolor painting leading to inaccurate representation.
• The wrong kind of bulb may emit heat that could damage delicate papers if exposed for extended periods.

Tips For Preserving The Quality Of A Watercolor Painting During Display

Displaying watercolor paintings require careful handling and maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Here are some tips on how best to preserve your painting:

1. Avoid Direct Sunlight:

Direct sunlight is one of the primary

In conclusion, displaying watercolor paintings requires careful consideration of the lighting, framing, and placement. By following simple tips and techniques, one can effectively showcase the beauty and intricacy of these delicate artworks.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Display Watercolor Paintings

How do you hang watercolor paintings without a frame?
If you want to preserve your artwork, binder clips are the ideal choice. Rather than attaching mounting tape directly to the paper, you can use the clips. This makes it easy to remove the artwork from the wall if you have nails or one-step hangers. Binder clips offer convenience and help to keep your art in perfect condition.

How should watercolor paintings be framed?
When framing artwork, it is important to have a small overlap of about inch on all sides to keep the paper in place and prevent it from slipping through the mat opening. However, for watercolor paper, which tends to wave, it is recommended to have a larger overlap of around ¼ inch to inch on all sides.

Do watercolor paintings need to be behind glass?
Because light can have a significant impact on the quality and longevity of watercolor paintings, it is important to protect them from direct light and shield them with a filter of glass or acrylic. Additionally, it is recommended to mount the paintings on acid-free mat board to prevent the paper from yellowing or deteriorating over time.

How do you display a large watercolor painting?
It is recommended to frame watercolor paintings under glass to protect them from deterioration, as they are typically done on paper which can degrade quickly if left exposed. There are strong reasons for this approach.

How do you store unframed watercolor paintings?
Unframed paintings require a different storage method than framed ones. To protect them, simply place an acid-free tissue sheet between each painting and store them flat in a box with a sturdy cover. The acid-free tissue will ensure that the paintings do not degrade from contact with any acidic materials.

Is it OK to roll watercolor paintings?
Many people make the mistake of storing their watercolor paintings by rolling them up, which can create a humid environment that leads to damage over time. To avoid this, it is recommended to store your paintings flat and horizontal.