Storing chalk pastel art properly is essential to prevent smudging, damage, and fading. Here's a breakdown of best practices:
Protecting Your Pastel Art: Key Methods
Several methods exist for safely storing your chalk pastel creations, focusing on minimizing contact and environmental damage.
- Glassine Interleaving: Place a sheet of glassine paper (a smooth, translucent paper resistant to grease and air) between each pastel drawing. This provides a protective layer, preventing the pastel from transferring to other surfaces. This is a common and effective method.
- Acid-Free Foam Board Support: Mount your pastel drawing onto an acid-free foam board to provide a rigid backing. This prevents the artwork from bending or creasing during storage. The acid-free nature is crucial to prevent degradation of the pastel over time.
- Mirror Boxes (or Similar Large Boxes): Store your protected pastel drawings in a large, shallow box. Mirror boxes are a good option because they are generally large and sturdy. Ensure the box is clean and dry.
- Professional Archival Storage Boxes: Consider investing in archival storage boxes specifically designed for artwork. These boxes are acid-free and often feature compartments or dividers to further protect individual pieces.
Practical Tips for Storage
Here's a more detailed, step-by-step breakdown incorporating these best practices:
- Leave a Border: When creating your pastel artwork, leave an inch or more of blank space around the edge of the drawing. This allows for handling without directly touching the pastel surface.
- Glassine Protection: After completing your pastel drawing, carefully cover it with a sheet of glassine paper. Ensure the glassine is larger than the artwork to provide complete coverage.
- Mounting (Optional but Recommended): Secure the glassine-covered pastel drawing to an acid-free foam board using acid-free tape or corner holders. This provides added support and protection.
- Flat Storage: Store your pastel drawings flat. Stacking them vertically can cause the pastel to shift and smudge.
- Environmental Control: Store your pastel artwork in a cool, dry, and dark location. Avoid areas with high humidity or direct sunlight, as these can damage the pastel over time.
- Avoid Problematic Materials: Stay away from using regular cardboard or standard tape, as they can contain acids that will damage your artwork.
Materials to Use (and Avoid)
| Material | Use | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Glassine Paper | Interleaving sheets to protect pastel surfaces | Using anything other than glassine paper |
| Acid-Free Foam Board | Rigid backing support | Regular cardboard or foam board that isn't acid-free |
| Acid-Free Tape | Securing art to foam board (use sparingly and only on the edges) | Regular tape, which can yellow, become brittle, and damage the artwork |
| Archival Boxes | Storage of multiple pieces | Boxes not specifically designed for archival art storage |
By following these guidelines, you can effectively store your chalk pastel art and preserve its beauty for years to come.
