Caring for an Original Oil Painting
Caring for Your Oil Painting
Oil paintings are made to last for generations—and with a little care and attention, yours will too. Here’s a simple guide to keeping your new artwork in top condition for years to come.
Handling
Oil paintings are a bit delicate when it comes to handling. Always protect the surface from sharp objects or anything that might press against it, as even soft-looking items can dent or stretch the canvas. (I once leaned a painting against an innocent-looking storage bag and noticed—just in time!—that it was bowing the canvas slightly.)
Be mindful of buckles, rings, or zips when you're lifting the painting. It’s best to hold it by the sides with both hands so it stays balanced and doesn't bump into anything. And watch out for door handles—they’re sneaky canvas snatchers. (Don’t ask me how I know.)
If an accident does happen, don’t panic. Professional restorers can work magic, often making damage completely invisible. But better to avoid the stress (and the bill) if you can.
Lighting
I use only premium-quality oil paints that are certified lightfast, so fading won’t be an issue. That said, it’s still good practice to avoid hanging your painting in direct, bright sunlight. Proper picture lights are great if you want to highlight it—otherwise, gentle, diffused light works well and helps preserve the piece.
Temperature
Try to avoid hanging your painting where temperatures fluctuate too much. Rapid changes can cause the wooden stretcher bars to warp. Aim to keep the room between 65 and 75°F, and if possible, avoid going outside a 20-degree temperature range.
Humidity
Bathrooms aren’t ideal places to hang oil paintings. High humidity can make the canvas stretch and sag. If it does start to loosen, a framer can easily retighten it for you. To be safe, keep the artwork away from humidifiers, heaters, or anywhere the air gets too damp or too dry.
Cleaning
To gently remove dust, use a soft white cloth or a very soft brush—nothing scratchy. Avoid sprays or solvents altogether, as these can harm the paint. If needed, you can use a slightly damp cloth (just water and a bit of olive oil soap). Be gentle—no rubbing—and skip paper towels or anything abrasive.
If the painting seems to need more than a light dusting or gentle wipe, I recommend contacting a professional restorer for advice.
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I hope you find this guide helpful. I’m also planning to write up some tips on storing and transporting oil paintings safely, so keep an eye out for that too.
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