Taking care of your watercolor, whether it's paint or paper, ensures its longevity and maintains its quality for creating beautiful art. This includes proper storage, handling, and preservation techniques.
Watercolor Paper Care
Storage is Key
Proper storage is crucial for preserving your watercolor paper. Here's how to do it:
- Cool and Dry Environment: Store paper in a cool, dry place. Humidity and extreme temperatures can warp or damage the paper.
- Protection from Light: Keep paper away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading and discoloration over time.
- Avoid Moisture: Moisture is an enemy of watercolor paper. Prevent exposure to humidity and water to avoid mold or mildew.
- Shield from Environmental Pollutants: Protect the paper from dust, smoke, and other pollutants that can degrade its quality. A plastic bag or container can be very helpful.
Handling Precautions
Careful handling minimizes the risk of damage:
- Clean Hands: Always handle paper with clean, dry hands to prevent transferring oils or dirt.
- Avoid Creasing: Be gentle when handling to avoid creases or folds that can be difficult to remove.
Watercolor Paint Care
Tube and Pan Paints
- Tubes: Squeeze tubes from the bottom upwards to prevent air pockets and dried paint. Wipe the nozzle clean after each use and ensure the cap is tightly sealed.
- Pans: Keep your pans clean and avoid contaminating colors. Let them dry completely before storing.
Proper Storage of Paint
- Cool, Dark Place: Store watercolor paints in a cool, dark location to prevent them from drying out or changing color.
- Airtight Containers: Keep your paints in airtight containers to protect them from air exposure.
Finished Watercolor Painting Care
Preserving a finished watercolor painting will help keep your art looking its best for years to come.
- Framing: Framing your painting with UV-protective glass helps shield it from light and environmental factors. Matting also helps prevent the painting from touching the glass, which can cause moisture damage.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Hang or store your artwork away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Proper Humidity: Avoid displaying or storing your painting in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
- Storage: If storing unframed paintings, interleave them with acid-free paper. Store flat in a cool, dry place.
By following these steps, you can ensure that both your watercolor paints and paper remain in excellent condition, allowing you to create and enjoy your art for years to come.
