Taking care of pastels, whether they are pastel sticks or pastel artwork, requires careful handling to preserve their delicate nature. Here’s how to properly care for pastels:
Caring for Pastel Sticks:
- Unwrapping: When you get new pastel sticks, unwrap them very carefully to avoid breakage.
- Storage: Store pastels in a way that prevents them from rubbing against each other, which can damage the sticks and cause color transfer. Consider using compartmentalized containers, trays with foam inserts, or even the original packaging.
Caring for Pastel Artwork:
Pastel artwork is particularly fragile and requires special care to prevent smudging, damage, and fading. Here’s what you need to do:
Handling Pastel Art:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Keep Face Up | Always keep the painting face up at all times. This prevents the soft pastel medium from being pressed against any surface, causing damage. |
| Avoid Touching | Do not touch the painting. The oils in your skin can damage the pastel surface. |
| Avoid Talking Over | Avoid talking over the painting as moisture from your breath can affect the pastel surface. |
Protecting Pastel Art:
- Glassine Protection: Pastel artworks are often protected by a frosted paper called Glassine. This is a great first line of defense.
- Do Not Cover: Do not cover the painting with ANYTHING, not even tissue paper, unless it's the protective glassine paper provided. This will damage the pastel.
- Framing: Frame as soon as possible. Framing behind glass (with a spacer to avoid direct contact) offers the best protection from physical damage, dust, and UV light.
Best Practices
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep pastel art away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Humidity Control: Protect artwork from excessive humidity.
By following these steps, you can ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your pastel artwork and the quality of your pastel materials.
