How do I maintain my oil painting?
Tips on general maintenance of oil paintings:
1. Avoid displaying it in direct sunlight as this can cause it to change colour.
2. If your painting is on canvas and it has loosened on the stretcher bars, a simple method to retighten it is to wipe the back of the canvas with a wet sponge and leave the piece to dry for a couple of hours. Repeat this process if it is still not tight enough. Canvases are made of fabric and so this will not damage the painting.
3. Dusting paintings is best. Don’t use water or cleaning products. Use a soft dry brush (a shaving brush is great), or if you don’t have one, a soft feather duster is the next best option. Don’t use a cloth as this can catch on the textured on areas of paint.
4.If your painting is framed, you can use a damp cloth to clean the surface of the frame.
5. If you or people around you smoke, try not to do it near oil paintings. Smoke damage can permanently change the tone of the piece.
