SUNLIGHT OR FADING?

With correct handling, the longevity of ink on archival paper is outstanding. After all, that's what they're designed for - centuries of stability and quality. For best results, hang your print in a dry, cool place and out of direct sunlight. In other words, I would avoid hanging it on a wall directly next to a window or one that receives direct sunlight for most of the day. 

HUMIDITY

It's best to leave your most valuable artwork out of the bathroom or kitchen areas that experience varied temperatures and humidity (or your partner's messy cooking).  Over time, even properly framed and mounted archival prints can be susceptible to damage in environments like this.  Canvas and wood prints contain wood, so they are susceptible to dramatic changes in humidity as well.  Basically, don't put it next your shower and if your home has heating and AC and you don't live in a ridiculously humid climate - don't sweat it.

HOW DO I FRAME THIS?

Paper Prints:  This refers to all archival photographs, printed on photo or fine art paper.  We offer a variety of finishing a framing options for your convenience, but if you decide to DIY - your paper print needs support and protection (like your house plants).  After all, they are just paper.  I do my best to create standard sizes for my prints whenever possible, so you can look for off-the-shelf frames from Target or Michaels.  But compositionally or if you're looking for specific dimensions to fill your wall space the best option will be non standard.  For the best results, I recommend going with a local frame shop that will properly mount, matte and frame your print behind glass.  This protects your investment by providing support for your print and the best physical resistance to scratches, splatters, dust and fading.  

Canvas Prints:  If you're looking for a raw look - leave it as is!  If you want a more finished look, I recommend a float-style frame.  It finishes the piece but the frame does not sit against the piece and gives it some extra depth.

Metal, Wood and Acrylic:  These print options are designed to hand as is!  Just select the finishing option you like most when creating your artwork and it will arrive ready to hang.

CLEANING AND DUSTING

Framed glass prints:  The benefit of framing behind glass?  Just use windex or other suitable glass cleaners and a soft rag.

Canvas Prints:  Gently dust the front and sides with a dry feather duster.  Do not rub or wipe across the piece with your hands, and I would not recommend using anything wet to spray onto the piece as it will damage the ink and could dimple the canvas.

Acrylic, Metal and Wood Prints:  Easy peasy!  Just treat it like your TV or computer screen and gently wipe with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the surface.

MOVING?  TRY THIS.

Pro: If you can have a pro pack your stuff, no doubt that is the best route.  Especially if you have lots of valuable artwork in your office or home - local art transportation services will pack it professionally, pick it up and either deliver it to another local address or ship to another city.

DIY:  It's a good idea to pack everything individually, rather than bundled in one large box.  Place cardboard corners onto the piece and gently wrap with brown paper or bubble wrap to prevent scratches.  If your print is framed in glass, tape a large 'X' across the glass with blue electrical tape - in the unfortunately even that the glass does break, this will prevent it from shattering completely or moving around too much.  If you print is not protected by glass, wrap it in several layers of plastic wrap from your kitchen.

During Transport:  Try to lay it flat with nothing above or below, or lean it against a flat surface with gentle supports to keep it from falling or moving around.   You primary concern is something breaking the glass, or poking and tearing your canvas.  If you have multiple pieces, place them well wrapped face to face, or back to back to prevent mounting hardware from scratching the front of the piece.