Aftercare for your Gina Soden Artwork

To ensure the longevity of your Gina Soden artwork and maintain its pristine condition, please follow these aftercare guidelines:

Unpacking Your Print

  • I know you’re excited to unwrap your print, but if you’re planning to have it framed at a framers, it’s best to leave the unpacking to the framer for safe handling.

If you are framing this yourself:

  • Clean Hands: Before handling your print, wash your hands thoroughly to remove oils and dirt.
  • Careful Removal: Gently remove the print from its packaging, handling it by the edges to avoid touching the image area. If the print was shipped in a tube, carefully pull on the tissue paper to extract the print.
  • Your Certificate of Authenticity is included in the tube along with your print. If it doesn’t slide out easily, gently shake the tube to help release it.

Flattening a Rolled Print

  • Unrolling: Slowly unroll your print, preferably with the assistance of another person to ensure careful handling.
  • Flattening: Place the unrolled print face down on a clean surface lined with tissue or a clean sheet of paper. Position clean, heavy objects (like books) on the back of the print and leave it overnight. Check the print in the morning; if it's not yet flat, leave it under the weights for a bit longer.

Framing Recommendations

  • Professional Framing: It's advisable to have your print framed by a professional framer using archival materials to protect it from environmental factors. We recommend using The Art Company in Wokingham https://www.theartco.net/
  • Materials: Ensure the use of acid-free backing boards and mounts. Opt for UV-protective glass or acrylic to shield the artwork from harmful light exposure.

Display Considerations

  • Lighting: Avoid placing the print in direct sunlight or under intense artificial lighting, as prolonged exposure can cause fading.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Display the artwork in environments with stable temperatures (16-22°C or 60-72°F) and relative humidity levels between 35-55% to prevent paper deterioration, mould growth, or brittleness.
  • Placement: Ideally keep the print away from areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens, and avoid proximity to heat sources like radiators or fireplaces.
  • If these factors aren’t taken into account, the print may develop ripples over time.

Cleaning and Maintenance

  • Dusting: Regularly dust the frame using a soft, dry cloth. For frames without glass, use a soft brush to gently remove dust from the print surface.
  • Avoid Chemicals: Do not use water, cleaning solutions, or chemicals on the print or frame, as they can cause irreversible damage.

Storage Recommendations

  • Flat Storage: If storing the print, keep it flat between sheets of acid-free tissue paper, away from direct light, moisture, and pests.
  • Avoid Rolling: Refrain from rolling the print for storage, as this can cause creases or damage over time.
  • By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your Gina Soden artwork remains in excellent condition for years to come. Enjoy the beauty and depth it brings to your space.

I would love love love to see where my work finds a home. Please tag me on Instagram @ginasodenartist

If you have any questions or require additional services, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Gina Soden - info@ginasoden.co.uk