When you invest in an original painting, you want to know it will stay looking good for years to come. The good news is that acrylic on canvas is actually quite robust. With a few simple habits, your painting will age beautifully.
Where to hang (and where not to)
Acrylic paintings are happiest in the same conditions you are:
- Avoid strong, direct sunlight for long periods. Occasional sun is fine, but try not to hang a painting where it’s blasted all day – colours can gradually fade.
- Avoid damp areas like steamy bathrooms or above radiators where heat is intense. Normal central heating is absolutely fine.
- If you’re hanging over a fireplace, make sure there’s a bit of breathing space between the top of the fire and the bottom of the canvas.
Dusting and cleaning
You don’t need any fancy products:
- Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth or a clean feather duster to gently remove dust from the surface and edges.
- Avoid sprays, polishes or household cleaners – they can leave residues or react with the paint surface.
If something splashes onto the painting (it happens!), lightly dampen a soft cloth with plain water and dab very gently. If in doubt, ask.
Frames, edges and bump protection
Many of my canvases are designed to be hung unframed, with the edges painted as part of the piece. If you prefer a more formal look, a simple tray frame can add a crisp border without covering the edges.
When moving house or rearranging, always pick up a canvas with two hands, supporting both sides. Avoid leaning heavy objects against it, and try not to poke the back of the canvas with fingers – it can stretch over time.
Storage
If you need to store a painting for a while:
- Wrap it in clean, acid-free paper or a soft cloth rather than plastic, which can trap moisture.
- Store it upright, not flat under other objects.
- Keep it somewhere dry and not too hot or cold – a spare room is better than a loft or garage.
With that, you’re pretty much set. Paintings aren’t museum artefacts – they’re meant to be lived with and enjoyed. A little common sense and occasional dusting is usually all they need.
