How to Hang & Care for Oil Paintings, Watercolors & Pastels: Simple Room, Framing & Maintenance Tips

1. Know Your Medium’s Needs

Oil Paintings

• Stable Humidity: Keep relative humidity (RH) around 45–55%. Oils tolerate moisture swings better than paper, but extremes (below 40% or above 60% RH) can crack varnish or canvas.

• Indirect Light: Avoid direct sun on unfiltered oils. South- or west-facing windows can overheat and fade paint. If you must hang nearby, use UV-filtering glazing or install blinds.

Watercolors

• Low Humidity: Paper buckles and mold thrives above 50% RH. Aim for 40–50% and steer clear of bathrooms or kitchens.

• Mat & Glass: Always use acid-free mat board and UV-protected (non-glare) glass—to block pollutants and fading.

Pastel Works

• Minimal Light: Chalk-like pigments rest on the surface and fade quickly under strong light. Matte UV-filtered glass is a must.

• Fixative & Framing: After painting, apply a light archival fixative mist, then frame under UV-filtered glazing to lock in color and keep dust off.

2. Choose the Best Room

• Living & Dining Rooms: Stable temperature, moderate light—ideal for oils and watercolors. Hang at eye level (center ~60" from floor) and away from heat vents.

• Bedrooms: Gentle morning and evening sun, low humidity—perfect for watercolors and pastels. Just avoid direct window rays and HVAC outlets.

• Hallways & Corridors: If natural light is low, add picture lights or LED gallery fixtures with UV filters. Controlled lighting protects every medium.

• Rooms to Avoid: Kitchens and bathrooms have steam, grease, and RH spikes. If you must, choose heavily glazed framing and keep pieces far from water sources.s.

3. Framing and Installation

• Use the Right Hardware: Choose hooks and wire rated for your artwork’s weight.

• Level It Up: A laser or bubble level ensures perfect alignment.

• Airflow Spacers: Small rubber bumpers on lower corners lift the frame off the wall, improving circulation and preventing scuffs.

• Rotate High-Value Pieces: For prized paintings, consider moving them out of bright rooms every few years to even out light exposure.

Sources & Further Reading

This guide is drawn from decades of professional and conservation best practices:

• American Institute for Conservation (AIC): “Caring for Your Treasures”
  AIC’s concise guide to cleaning, storing, displaying, handling, and protecting works of art and heirlooms, covering paper, textiles, metals, glass, and more.

• Smithsonian American Art Museum: “How to Care for Your Collections”
  Practical, room-by-room advice on preserving paintings, works on paper, and mixed-media pieces in a residential setting.

• Getty Conservation Institute: “Managing Collection Environments – Technical Notes and Guidance”
  Detailed research on climate monitoring, light control, and preventive measures for oil paintings, works on paper, and mixed-media collections.

• Tate (UK): “Care and Treatment of Loaned Artworks”
  Tate’s guidelines on excluding direct sunlight, controlling gallery conditions, and selecting framing/glazing to protect fine art on loan or display

• Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI): “Preventive Conservation Guidelines for Paper Objects”
  CCI’s comprehensive online resource on paper deterioration agents, framing media (including pastels), and risk-management strategies for works on paper.

4. Climate Control and Maintenance

• Monitor Conditions: A digital hygrometer and thermostat reveal dangerous swings in real time.

• Gentle Cleaning: Dust frames and glass with a soft brush or microfiber—never spray cleaning solutions directly.

• Professional Check-Up: For oil paintings, a conservation review every 5–10 years can catch varnish yellowing or canvas sagging before it worsens.

5. Elevate Your Space with Premium Originals

Whether you already own a Moiseieva Studio piece or plan a custom commission, following these steps will help keep your art vibrant and valuable. Browse approximate pricing and size options on our [Commissions page]. If your ideal dimensions aren’t listed, simply let me know and I’ll provide a tailored quote.

Questions? Email me at hello@moiseievastudio.art with your order number or your desired size and medium. I’ll reply within 24–48 hours with expert advice.

When you invest in fine art—whether it’s a richly textured oil painting, a delicate watercolor, or a chalky pastel—you want it to look its best for decades. Choosing the right room and installation method is key to preserving color, preventing damage, and enjoying your pieces in their full glory. Here’s a practical guide in plain English to help you hang and care for your originals.