SUGGESTED CARE OF YOUR
SHOWCASE EDITIONS FINE ART PRINT

STORAGE:
Remove prints from any outer packaging but leave them in either their portfolio or paper sleeve, and store away from light. Never store un-mounted prints directly on top of each other; separate them with acid free tissue or paper on either side. Never store or leave prints flat on the floor. Elevate them so that air can circulate around them. If storing on shelves, choose wooden rather than metal. Metal shelving can cause condensation over a period of time, and is also a greater conductor of heat in case of fire. Prints should be rotated from display to storage on a three-month cycle. Framed prints that are kept in storage should be cleaned by experienced persons on a regular basis. Accumulation of dust containing airborne mould spores can cause deterioration of the print.

HANDLING:
Always handle prints with clean hands; natural body oils can do permanent damage to paper and other fine art materials. To avoid crimps and creases, always use two hands to lift the print. Never touch the image area or drag anything across it. A scratch or thumbprint is permanent and cannot be repaired. Never use pressure-sensitive tape anywhere on the print.

HEAT:
Never hang or store a print over or next to a radiator or heat register. Do not hang a piece of art over a fireplace either; the combination of heat, soot and smoke can cause extensive damage in a very short period of time.

HUMIDITY:
Humidity is a major enemy of paper and prints. The chief danger of humidity is mould, which grows in environments where the relative humidity is greater than 70%. According to museum curators, 50% humidity is ideal for works of art. Always maintain proper humidity levels wherever prints are being stored or hung, and never store or hang prints in damp basements or cellars.
When framing, never allow a print to rest directly on glass. If your print has not been mounted, it will make contact with the glass. Condensation will form between the print and the glass and will ultimately destroy the print. Always ensure air circulation behind your print, and be sure to check for dampness on the outside of any wall where you are hanging your prints.

LIGHT:
All light will cause some fading in works of art, especially those on paper, even though archival, fade resistant inks have been utilised on our prints. Fading cannot be stopped by keeping your art in subdued light. Less light means less fading, but fading is not reversible.
How much light is optimum? Light is measured in foot-candles, and according to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the optimum is five foot-candles, which is roughly the equivalent of a 150watt bulb placed approximately four to five feet away from the piece of art it lights. Special lighting is available for use with works of art.
Never place your art in direct sunlight or opposite a window. Avoid reflected light, too; the ultraviolet rays it contains can be very harmful to inks and paper. Fluorescent lights are probably the most potent source of ultraviolet rays. When framing, the use of ultraviolet protective glass is a good option.

FRAMING:
When arranging for your print to be framed, insist on the use of archival or museum quality, acid-free materials. If possible, use a Guild Commended Framer who has qualifications recognised by the Fine Art Trade Guild. This may add to the cost but will enable your print to be enjoyed for many years to come.