CARE and Size GUIDE

Prints
Here are some easy care instructions to help store and preserve your print for many years.

Things that may affect your print

• moisture (water damage)

• humidity (mold and fungus)

• heat (brittle and brown)

• light (fading)

• acidity (disintegrates the paper)

• insects (eats thru it)

• 
  

General Care

• Avoid using tape over the print as evidence of old tape is apparent when left on for long - this includes blu tak as long term use can produce oil and or creases in the corners of the print

• Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight and humidity as this will damage both the paper quality and fade the print long term

• Clean gently with a document cleaning pad and a soft dusting brush if left uncovered or handled as it will be dirty – even if stain or dirt is not obvious

• Wear nitrile gloves or finger cots when handling prints to prevent fingerprint marks and oils penetrating the paper

• Avoid folding the print as this can cause creasing and tearing

Repairs

Re-enforcement and tears

Tape may be used to reinforce a crease, or minor tears. Use archival quality tape as they are designed not to dry out like household pressure sensitive tapes, acid-free, and can be removed without damaging the print.

Backing material may be used for particularly fragile, damaged or valuable posters. Use an archival quality backing such as an acid free archival linen or buffered backing board for better results. Remember, when backing a poster that you may be obscuring a part of the print that may are either on the back or on the outer corners. Backing a poster is best done by a professional conservator/restorer who will be able to flatten creases and ‘in-fill’ any holes in the poster where sections are missing. If you are doing it yourself, please check that the materials used are all acid-free, lignin free and also buffered (paper or board).

Water damage, rust marks, holes or mould stains

All water, rust and mould damage should be treated by a professional conservator who will be able to clean the poster or improve the appearance of marks. Please do not use any chemicals in attempt as it may compromise the quality of the paper or print. For particularly valuable posters a conservator will be able to wash the paper which will help to reduce acidity and remove contaminants.

Storage
The invisible issues are less obvious but just as damaging long term. Some conditions to consider while storing include:

• Size of storage - Do not fold your print for storage.

• Humidity and Temperature - Any unboxed posters should be kept away UV light.

• Pest

We recommend storing all prints in a clear acid-free polyester or polyethylene sleeves or pockets as they offer the best level of protection and clarity. Backing boards are not necessary for storing in polyester but will support and help protect it, it will also make insertion or removal from a sleeve easier.

Remember, for limited edition and rare prints it is always advisable to speak to a trained conservator who will be able to advise on the best way to clean, repair and store your print. 

Clothing
In order to select the correct clothing size, we recommend you take the following measurements using a soft tape measure.
If necessary, ask someone else to help.

To preserve the quality, we recommend the following :

• Machine wash according to instructions on care label or gentle dry clean

• Dry on a flat surface / do not hang / reshape

• Iron inside out