To store a charcoal drawing effectively and preserve its delicate nature, it should be kept face-up and flat in an acid-free storage box, ideally not stacked directly on top of other drawings.
Charcoal drawings are susceptible to smudging and damage due to the loose nature of the medium. Proper storage is crucial for long-term preservation.
Essential Storage Principles
The foundational steps for storing charcoal drawings focus on minimizing physical disturbance and protecting against environmental degradation.
- Flat and Face-Up: Always store your charcoal drawings flat rather than rolled or folded. Rolling can crack the charcoal, and folding will crease the paper and disturb the artwork. Storing them face-up helps prevent the charcoal from transferring to the surface below, especially if the piece isn't fully fixed.
- Acid-Free Environment: Utilize an acid-free storage box or portfolio. Acid in regular paper or cardboard can cause the drawing to yellow, become brittle, or degrade over time. Acid-free materials ensure the longevity of your artwork.
- Avoid Stacking: It's preferably not to store charcoal drawings directly on top of one another. The pressure and friction from stacked works can easily smudge the charcoal or even transfer it from one drawing to another, regardless of how well-fixed it might be.
Protecting Individual Artwork
For enhanced protection, especially when multiple drawings need to be stored in the same box, individual sheeting is vital.
- Glassine Sheets are Key: Each charcoal drawing can be covered with a glassine sheet. Glassine is a smooth, translucent, and acid-free paper that provides a protective barrier without sticking to or disturbing the artwork. It's an ideal choice because it's non-abrasive and allows you to view the artwork without removing the protective layer.
- Avoid Plastic or Paper: Do not use plastic sheets or regular paper to cover charcoal drawings.
- Plastic: Can create static electricity, which attracts charcoal particles and can lift them off the paper, thereby disturbing the artwork. It can also trap moisture, leading to mold or mildew over time.
- Paper: Standard paper, if not acid-free, can introduce acids that will damage the artwork. Its texture can also cause abrasion and smudging.
- Secure with Acid-Free Tape to a Substrate: If necessary, the glassine sheet can be held in place using acid-free tape attached to a substrate such as a mat board. This creates a stable unit that further protects the drawing from movement and external damage, especially if the box is handled frequently. The mat board also provides rigid support, preventing bending.
Recommended Materials Checklist
To ensure your charcoal drawings are stored safely and effectively, consider the following materials:
| Material Type | Purpose | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Acid-Free Storage Box | Primary container for flat storage | Prevents degradation of artwork |
| Glassine Sheets | Individual protective layer for each drawing | Non-abrasive, non-static, acid-free |
| Acid-Free Tape | Securing glassine to substrate | Prevents chemical reactions |
| Mat Board | Rigid substrate for individual drawings (optional but recommended) | Provides structural support |
By adhering to these guidelines, your charcoal drawings will be well-preserved, maintaining their original detail and integrity for years to come.
