Lena Rivera
Paintings are often stored in clear poly bags, also known as Clear BagsTM, to protect them from moisture, acidity, and the sun's ultraviolet rays. These bags are made of a form of plastic known as biaxially oriented polypropylene, or BOPP, which is extruded and stretched in two directions during manufacturing to increase tensile strength and clarity. Clear BagsTM are designed for storing photos and paintings when they are not hanging on a wall, and they are also suitable for archiving important documents.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of sleeve | Clear poly bags made of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) |
| Purpose | To protect paintings from moisture, acidity, and sunlight |
| Features | Archival bags available in various sizes, with some brands offering acid-free options |
| Artwork placement | Critical Art Box is the flat area against the container; artwork outside this box may become distorted |
| Barcodes | Printed vertically on the sleeve to ensure correct scanning |
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What You'll Learn
Use clear poly bags for storing paintings
Clear poly bags, also known as Clear BagsTM, are a great way to store paintings when they are not hanging on your wall. They are made of a state-of-the-art form of plastic known as biaxially oriented polypropylene, or BOPP for short. BOPP has excellent clarity, a low electrostatic charge, and high tensile strength. The plastic material is extruded and stretched in two directions during the manufacturing process, which increases both tensile strength and clarity – in some cases, it's so clear that it's almost invisible.
Archival bags are available in a variety of sizes and can be used to store not just paintings, but also photos, prints, postcards, and other important documents. Acid-free archival bags are particularly good for storing paintings, as they will protect them from becoming discoloured. The two deadliest enemies of paintings are moisture and acidity, so it is important to invest in high-quality bags that will protect your paintings from these elements.
Clear poly bags are also useful if you want to examine your paintings without removing them from storage. Some bags, such as Crystal Clear Archival Bags, have a protective adhesive closure strip located on the body of the bag, making it easier to insert and remove the painting without it sticking to the adhesive.
However, it is important to note that clear poly bags are not enough on their own to protect your paintings. You will also need a proper storage box to protect your paintings from the sun's ultraviolet rays.
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Invest in high-quality print protectors
When it comes to preserving your paintings, photographs, or important documents, investing in high-quality print protectors is essential. While clear poly bags are commonly used for storing artwork, they are not sufficient on their own. The two main enemies of your artwork are moisture and acidity. Even a small amount of moisture can interact with the surface of your paintings or photographs, causing discolouration and staining. To prevent this, opt for archival storage solutions that are specifically designed to protect your precious pieces.
Clear BagsTM, for example, offers a range of archival storage bags made from biaxially oriented polypropylene, or BOPP. This state-of-the-art plastic is extruded and stretched in two directions during manufacturing, resulting in superior tensile strength and clarity. The bags are almost invisible, allowing you to easily examine your artwork without removing it from the bag.
By investing in high-quality print protectors like Clear BagsTM, you can be confident that your paintings, photographs, and documents are safeguarded from the detrimental effects of moisture and acidity. These protectors are available in various sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for your artwork. Additionally, they provide protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays, which can also cause damage over time.
It is worth noting that while print protectors are crucial, a proper storage box is also recommended. By combining both, you can create an optimal environment for preserving your valuable artwork and important documents for the long term. This small investment can make a significant difference in maintaining the integrity and longevity of your cherished possessions.
In summary, don't skimp on protection for your artwork. Invest in high-quality print protectors like Clear BagsTM to ensure your paintings, photographs, and documents remain in pristine condition. By taking these proactive measures, you can enjoy and cherish your artwork for years to come, knowing they are safely preserved.
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Store paintings in archival storage
Storing paintings in archival storage is a delicate process as paintings are susceptible to moisture, breakage, tears, smudges, stains, fading, and impact. Before storing your paintings, it is important to clean them with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust from the surface. If necessary, use wood polish or metal polish to avoid any rust or scuffing.
The ideal humidity to store artwork is 40-50% with a temperature between 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius). Ensure that the paintings are stored in a controlled environment with this level of humidity to prevent damage. The number one enemy when it comes to climate control is rapid changes in temperature or humidity, which can cause cracked paint, warping, yellowing of paper, and mould growth.
Use acid-free materials for storage, as materials that are not acid-free will age faster and could dye the backing of the canvas or print, negatively affecting the value of the piece. Acid-free paper, also known as archival paper, is a great way to protect your paintings. You can also use archival-quality storage materials such as acid-free boxes, folders, and tissue paper. Clear poly bags made of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) are another option for archival storage, as they protect against moisture and acidity. However, it is important to note that clear poly bags are not enough on their own, and a proper storage box is also necessary to protect your paintings from the sun's ultraviolet rays.
When packing paintings for storage, use clean mirror boxes, archival art boxes, or large, flat boxes. Packing materials can include newspaper, bubble wrap, or acid-free tissue paper. Ensure that the paintings are secure and won't move around too much to prevent damage. Once packed, seal the box with packing tape and label it accordingly, including marking fragile boxes with an arrow indicating which way they need to be stored.
Finally, it is recommended to check on your paintings regularly, ideally once every few months. Paintings are susceptible to smudging and oils from fingerprints, so it is best to avoid touching them directly. When handling the paintings, you can choose to wear gloves to avoid direct contact.
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Protect paintings from moisture and acidity
Protecting paintings from moisture and acidity is essential for their preservation. Paintings are susceptible to damage if handled, stored, or displayed incorrectly, and environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and acidity can cause significant harm. Here are some detailed instructions to protect your paintings:
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that different materials react differently to environmental changes. Oil paintings, acrylic paintings, works on paper, and gilt frames each have unique characteristics when exposed to moisture and acidity. Therefore, it is essential to seek professional advice to determine the best preservation methods for your specific painting.
To protect your paintings from moisture, it is essential to maintain stable environmental conditions. Monitor the humidity levels in your home or storage area, ideally keeping it around 55%. This can be easily tracked using a hygrometer. Ensure there is adequate airflow around your paintings, as stagnant air can lead to mould growth. Avoid hanging your paintings near open windows or dusty areas, as this can result in dirt and dust accumulation. Regular cleaning of the areas around the painting can help reduce the build-up of surface dirt.
Additionally, fluctuations in temperature can cause the canvas to expand and contract, leading to cracking, blistering, or flaking of the paint layer. Keep the temperature within a consistent range, commonly accepted as 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during winter and 70 to 75 degrees during summer. Avoid extreme temperature variations, such as in garages or attics, as this can accelerate deterioration.
To safeguard your paintings from acidity, it is essential to use acid-free storage materials. When storing unframed artwork, place it in acid-free print boxes or clear poly bags specifically designed for archival storage. These bags, often made of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), provide excellent protection against moisture and acidity while allowing for easy examination of the artwork. Additionally, when storing multiple works of art, separate them with 2- or 4-ply rag or conservation matboard to protect against acidic damage, curling, and creasing.
Finally, consider framing your paintings with UV filtering acrylic or non-reflective laminated glass to protect them from sunlight, dust, and physical damage. Framing provides both decorative and protective functions, but ensure the hanging fixtures are robust enough to support the weight of the painting.
By following these instructions, you can effectively protect your paintings from moisture and acidity, ensuring their longevity for future generations to enjoy.
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Use a storage box to protect from UV rays
When storing paintings, it is essential to protect them from UV rays to prevent deterioration and discolouration. While clear poly bags are useful for storing paintings, they are not sufficient to protect against sunlight. Therefore, it is recommended to use a proper storage box to safeguard your paintings from UV damage.
Firstly, it is important to choose the right type of storage box. Acid-free print boxes are ideal for preserving paintings. Solander boxes, for instance, are acid-free print boxes with special hinged front panels, easily purchasable from conservation suppliers. You can also use archival storage boxes, which are commonly used for storing old books and photographs. These boxes are designed to protect against UV rays and can be purchased or custom-made to fit your painting's dimensions.
Secondly, when using a storage box, ensure that the painting is stored flat rather than rolled up, as rolling can cause the paint to crack and stain. Additionally, monitor the humidity levels in the storage area, aiming for a range of 40% to 70% humidity. Place the storage box in a cool, dry, and dark location within your living space, such as a closet, avoiding attics or basements.
By following these guidelines and using a suitable storage box, you can effectively protect your paintings from UV rays and preserve their condition for years to come.
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Frequently asked questions
To protect your paintings from sunlight, use clear poly bags made of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) to store them. This type of plastic has increased tensile strength and clarity, and will protect your paintings from the sun's ultraviolet rays.
Yes, clear poly bags can also protect your paintings from moisture and acidity, which can cause discolouration and staining.
Yes, you can also use archival storage boxes made of acid-free plastic to protect your paintings.
Clear BagsTM is a company that sells clear poly bags designed to store and protect paintings and photographs.
