- Store oil pastel paintings properly by placing them in a protective sleeve or covering them with glassine paper to prevent smudging and dust accumulation.
- Avoid touching the surface of the painting with bare hands as the natural oils from skin can cause damage over time. Wear gloves or use a barrier cloth when handling oil pastel artworks.
- Frame oil pastel paintings with acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to prevent fading and discoloration caused by exposure to light.
- Keep oil pastel paintings away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight as these can cause cracking, melting, or warping of the artwork.
- Apply fixative spray to seal the surface of the painting and protect it from moisture, dirt, and smudging. Use a workable fixative if you plan to make further changes or additions to the artwork later on.
Are you tired of seeing your oil pastel paintings fade or get damaged over time? As an artist, you put a lot of effort and creativity into every piece you create, and the last thing you want is for it to lose its vibrancy. But don’t worry, protecting your oil pastel paintings doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
One of the biggest challenges artists face when working with oil pastels is how to protect their artwork once it’s completed. The unique properties of these materials mean that they are more prone to smudging, cracking, and fading than other mediums. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can ensure that your artwork stays vibrant for years to come. In this article, we will share some tips and tricks on how to protect your oil pastel paintings so that they can withstand the test of time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, these tips will help you preserve your precious creations and keep them looking beautiful for decades to come.
How to Protect Oil Pastel Painting – The Quick Answer:
Preparing the surface of an oil pastel painting is crucial to prevent cracking or flaking. It is important to allow all layers of paint to dry thoroughly before applying any protective measures. Using a rigid support, such as a wooden panel, can also help prevent bending or warping over time. Proper preparation will ensure that your artwork remains in good condition for years to come.
Common Challenges Faced When Protecting Oil Pastel Paintings
Oil pastels are a versatile medium for artists, but they present unique challenges when it comes to protecting them. One of the biggest challenges is that oil pastels never fully dry and can smudge easily even after several weeks of drying time. Therefore, protecting an oil pastel painting requires careful planning and execution to ensure that the artwork remains in good condition.
One common challenge faced when protecting oil pastel paintings is the accumulation of dust and dirt on the surface. Dust particles can be particularly problematic because they can work their way into the textured surface of the artwork, making it difficult to remove them without risking damage to the painting. Additionally, if left untreated, dust particles can cause discoloration or even mold growth on the painting’s surface.
Another challenge is that oil pastel paintings are prone to cracking over time. Unlike acrylic or oil paints, which contract as they dry, oil pastels remain pliable and subject to movement over time. This means that stress points may develop in the painting’s surface over time, leading to cracking or flaking.
Preventing Cracking
To prevent cracking in an oil pastel painting, it is essential to properly prepare the surface before applying protective measures. The artist should ensure that all layers of paint have thoroughly dried before applying any varnish or fixative sprays. Additionally, using a rigid support such as a wooden panel rather than paper will help prevent bending or warping of the artwork over time.
Dust and Dirt Prevention
To protect against dust and dirt accumulation on an oil pastel painting’s surface, artists should handle their artwork with clean hands and avoid touching it as much as possible once completed. It is also advisable to store finished pieces in a protective sleeve or cover when not being displayed.
Preparing the Surface of an Oil Pastel Painting for Protective Measures
Before applying any protective measures to an oil pastel painting, it is essential to prepare the surface properly. The artist should ensure that all layers of paint have thoroughly dried before applying any varnish or fixative sprays. Additionally, using a rigid support such as a wooden panel rather than paper will help prevent bending or warping of the artwork over time.
Clean the Surface
To prepare the surface of an oil pastel painting for protective measures, begin by cleaning it. Use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this may cause smudging or damage to the painting.
Apply Fixative Spray
Once the surface has been cleaned and dried, apply a fixative spray to protect against smudging and ensure that the colors remain vibrant. Fixatives are available in both workable and final forms, with workable fixatives allowing for reworking of the artwork while final fixatives provide a more permanent protective layer.
Materials to Use for Protecting Oil Pastel Paintings from Dust and Dirt
There are several materials available for protecting oil pastel paintings from dust and dirt accumulation over time. Some popular options include glass frames, plexiglass covers, acid-free storage sleeves, and archival boxes.
Glass Frames
Glass frames are perhaps one of the most common ways to protect oil pastels from dust and dirt accumulation. When using glass frames, opt for UV-resistant glass that filters out harmful rays that can cause discoloration over time.
Plexiglass Covers
Plexiglass covers are another good option for protecting oil pastels from dust and dirt accumulation without adding extra weight like traditional glass frames might. However, plexiglass is more prone to scratching than glass, so handle it with care.
Acid-Free Storage Sleeves
For artists looking for a more portable option for protecting their oil pastel paintings, acid-free storage sleeves are an excellent choice. These sleeves provide a protective barrier against dust and dirt while being lightweight and easy to transport.
Archival Boxes
Archival boxes are another option for artists looking to store their oil pastel paintings long-term. These boxes are designed to protect artwork from light, moisture, and other harmful environmental factors that can cause damage over time.
Specific Storage Conditions for Oil Pastel Paintings
Oil pastels require specific storage conditions to ensure they remain in good condition over time. The following tips will help keep your oil pastel paintings safe from environmental factors that can cause discoloration or deterioration over time:
- Store oil pastel paintings in a dark place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid storing oil pastels in areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures.
- Keep oil pastels stored flat or upright in a protective sleeve or cover.
- Avoid stacking multiple oil pastel paintings on top of one another as this may cause smudging or damage to the surface of the artwork.
Varnishing as a Protective Measure for Oil Pastel Paintings
Varnishing is an effective way to protect oil pastel paintings from environmental factors such as dust, dirt, and moisture. Varnish provides an additional layer of protection that will help prevent smudging and discoloration over time.
Selecting the Right Varnish
When selecting a varnish for an oil pastel painting, choose one that is non-yellowing and provides UV protection. It is also important to select a varnish that is compatible with oil pastels, as some varnishes may cause smudging or discoloration.
Application
When applying varnish to an oil pastel painting, be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and apply it in thin, even layers. Avoid over-saturating the surface of the artwork with varnish, as this may cause smudging or damage to the painting’s surface.
Precautions to Take While Framing an Oil Pastel Painting for Protection
Framing oil pastel paintings can provide excellent protection against environmental factors such as dust and dirt accumulation. However, it is essential to take precautions when framing oil pastels to ensure that they remain in good condition over time.
Matting
When matting an oil pastel painting, it is important to use acid-free materials to prevent discoloration or damage over time. Additionally, ensure that the mat board has a larger opening than the artwork itself to prevent smudging or damage caused by contact with the mat board.
Glass Frames
Glass frames are an excellent way to protect oil pastels from environmental factors; however, it is crucial to use UV-resistant glass and avoid direct sunlight exposure. Additionally, avoid pressing glass too close against the surface of the artwork as this may cause smudging or damage.
Cleaning and Reapplying Protective Measures on an Oil Pastel Painting
Over time protective measures applied on oil pastel paintings may need cleaning and reapplication. Cleaning will remove any accumulated dust or dirt on the surface while reapplication will help restore any lost protection due to wear and tear.
Cleaning
To clean an oil pastel painting’s surface, use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove any loose dirt or debris. Avoid using any liquids or solvents, as these may cause smudging or damage to the painting’s surface.
Reapplication
To reapply protective measures such as fixative sprays or varnish, follow the same steps outlined in earlier sections of this article. Begin by cleaning the surface of the artwork and allowing it to dry completely before applying any new protective layers.
Best Practices for Long-Term Protection of Oil Pastel Paintings
Protecting oil pastel paintings over the long-term requires careful planning and execution. The following best practices will help keep your artwork safe from environmental factors that can cause discoloration, deterioration, or damage:
- Store oil pastel paintings in a dark place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid storing oil pastels in areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures.
- Handle oil pastels with clean hands and avoid touching them once completed.
- Clean and reapply protective measures periodically to ensure continued protection against dust and dirt accumulation.
- Framing oil pastel paintings is an excellent way to protect against environmental factors; however, be sure to take precautions such as using UV-resistant glass and acid-free matting materials.
In conclusion, protecting oil pastel paintings involves taking necessary steps such as framing, using fixatives, and storing in a safe place. These simple precautions can ensure that your artwork remains intact and vibrant for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Protect Oil Pastel Painting
Does Hairspray protect oil pastels?
Certain artists dislike the effects of hairspray on their artwork, as it can alter the appearance of some shades. However, research indicates that hairspray can effectively prevent oil pastels from smudging without any negative consequences.
Can you put varnish over oil pastel?
Oil and wax pastels do not dry or harden and should be displayed behind glass. It is not recommended to apply varnish, but if you choose to do so, follow the instructions from the manufacturer for sealants and fixatives.
Can you seal a pastel painting?
Because of this, oil pastels are easily affected by both solvents and smudging. However, it is possible to create a protective barrier similar to a fixative.
What can cover oil pastels?
Sennelier D’Artigny Oil Pastel Fixative can give a glossy finish, but this can be altered with the use of an acrylic varnish. Another option artists have used is Krylon Kamar spray varnish which protects oil and acrylic paintings from yellowing.
What is the disadvantage of oil pastel?
Achieving high-quality results and precise details with pastels can be challenging. Oil pastels are particularly difficult to blend as their oily texture causes them to adhere quickly to the paper, leaving less margin for error.
How long do oil pastel paintings last?
With proper maintenance, your artwork can last for many generations. Pastels are a highly durable artistic medium, with many pastel pieces from over 200 years ago still appearing bright and vibrant. The pigments used in my pastels are of the same quality as those utilized in top-tier oil paints.
