It is also possible to purchase UV protective glass, which will not only prevent damage to the artwork but will also provide some resistance to fading.
Should you Frame a Painting Behind Glass? (Complete Guide)
If you have just bought a new painting or are looking to frame your own creations, you are probably wondering the best way to display and protect your artwork.
Framing behind glass is a popular method of protecting a work of art, but that does not make it suitable for all, and in some cases risks causing more harm than good.
Whether or not you should frame a painting behind glass is not entirely without debate, however there are some general guidelines for each medium, whether that be acrylics, oils, pastels or pencil. In this article I will explain why certain mediums require glass protection, and why others do not, depending on their properties.
The Quick Answer
Oil paintings on canvas do not require framing behind glass. Acrylic paintings also do not require being placed behind glass, unless exposed to very high temperatures. Pastel, watercolour paintings and pencil drawings on paper require additional protection, so framing behind glass is recommended.
Under most conditions, acrylic paintings on canvas do not require framing behind glass. This is especially the case when the painting has been varnished, as this will provide protection from dust and dirt, allowing the artwork to be cleaned without damaging the paintwork.
Many artists will varnish their acrylic paintings to unify the sheen of the artwork, and to also provide a barrier between the paintwork and potential contaminants.
Acrylic varnishes with UV protection are also available, which can not only protect the painting from dust and dirt, but also the affects of sunlight.
For acrylic paintings on stretched canvas, there is the option to hang the painting without any additional framing. This minimalist style can suit many homes and styles of art.
There is also the option to frame a canvas in a frame without glazing, either in a traditional frame or in a contemporary style-floater frame. Floater frames leave a gap between the canvas edge and the inside of the frame, giving a contemporary feel to the finished artwork.
Perhaps one instance where you may feel the need to frame an acrylic painting behind glass is if the artwork is to be kept in a hot environment. Acrylic paint can soften in hot temperatures, allowing dust and dirt to settle within the paintwork.
If your acrylic painting is on paper, rather than canvas, framing behind glass is a good option to protect the delicate paper from damage.
Oil Paintings
Similarly to acrylic paintings, in most situations it is unnecessary to frame an oil painting behind glass. For aesthetic reasons alone, framing behind glass is likely to cast reflections and, in the case of impasto (thickly textured) oil paintings, can detract from this aspect of the artwork.
Oil paintings require a long time to dry, and often years to fully oxidise and cure. Oil paintings, especially once varnished, are very capable of being displayed without any additional glazing.
Oil paintings should be allowed to breathe, as the risk of trapped moisture caused by framing behind glass could degrade the paintwork and canvas.
Oil paintings on paper are an exception, and framing behind glass is recommended. However you must ensure the painting is fully dry to prevent trapped moisture.
Everything You Need to Know About Using Fixative on Acrylic Paint
Most artists face the dilemma of whether or not to spray fixative on their acrylic works. So, we’re here with all the facts, tips, and best practices for using fixative sprays.
Did you know that it’s a great (but underrated) sealant for most paint mediums? No? Then make sure to keep reading!
Fixatives Are Best for Acrylics, Charcoal and Oil Pastels
It’s okay to hesitate to use a fixative for the first time. We did too! But it turns out it’s good for not only acrylic paint but also chalk, graphite, and pastels. You can safely use a fixative for sealing an artwork made with any of these mediums.
For acrylics, you’ll have the best results using Sennelier D’Artigny Oil Pastel Fixative or the Krylon Kamar Spray Varnish.
It’s easy to make home-made fixative for acrylic paint. All you need is one tablespoon of clear shellac and four ounces of isopropyl alcohol.
Why You Should Use Fixatives for Acrylics
You should use a fixative for acrylic because it locks in the pigments and restores the tooth of your paper.
This spray doesn’t leave a yellow tinge on your pastel work. It’s a clear, fast-drying solution that can protect your precious art work from the elements.
But the main reason why you need to start using a fixative for acrylic is something else.
When you apply acrylic color on paper, the paint can bleed through the other side. Too many layers can cause the paper to warp and eventually break. What the solution does is create a barrier between two layers of paint so that they don’t soak into the paper. Cool, right?
Moreover, fixatives are available in different strengths, finish and UV resistance levels.
Two Types of Fixative Sprays that You Can Use on Acrylics
There are two fixative sprays that are suitable for acrylic colors. Depending on where you are in your painting process, consider the following sealants your best options!
Workable Fixative Spray
A workable fixative is one that allows you to paint over the sealant. This type of fixative is among our favorite art supplies.
It can work wonders on your canvas, holding each paint layer perfectly in place!
Dry media is the only acceptable surface for spraying workable fixative. You can spray it all over the surface or in areas where you need more backup.
Final Fixative Spray
This type of sealant should be applied towards the end of your work. There is usually no scope for reworking after this step.
However, the chemical reaction from the final spray can fade pigments. This means you’re better off with workable sealants in the initial stage.
