Caring for Your Limited & Master Edition Giclée Prints
Thank you for investing in my work. These editions are produced with archival pigment inks on museum-grade materials and—when cared for properly—are made to last for generations.
Quick Care (at a glance)
- Handle by the edges using clean cotton gloves or a clean microfiber cloth.
- Display away from direct sunlight/UV, heat, and moisture.
- Limited (paper): frame promptly with archival materials and possibly UV-filtering glass (depending on the type).
- Master (canvas): a floating frame is recommended for perimeter support; see mounting notes below.
- Clean gently (details below). Never use household cleaners or sprays.
Limited Edition (Paper Giclée)
- Substrate: Epson Hot Press Natural 330 gsm (100% cotton, acid-/lignin-free, OBA-free).
- Resolution: Printed at 350 DPI or higher for exceptional detail.
- Signature: Signed in graphite—avoid rubbing the signature area before or during framing. Ask framers to wear gloves if possible.
- Longevity and investment: Independent testing (Wilhelm Imaging Research) supports very long display life—often cited as “up to 400+ years” under proper conditions with UltraChrome pigment inks. See the WIR report.
Framing (recommended):
Use archival, acid-free mats and backing plus museum-grade UV-filtering glass (just check to make sure it does not affect the color of the artwork).
Ask your framer to seal the back to reduce dust and humidity ingress. For general conservation guidance, see the Smithsonian’s resource “Caring for Your Paintings.”
Master Edition (Canvas Giclée)
- Substrate & finish: Epson Matte Canvas, hand-stretched; signed & numbered in acrylic; protected with museum-grade archival varnish.
- Display options: A floating frame provides clean presentation and full perimeter support around the stretcher. Examples and info: If hanging by wire, anchor securely into the side stretcher bars and use hardware appropriate for the piece’s weight.
- Timeline: Master Editions take 3–4 weeks to complete due to the hand-finishing process.
- Longevity and investment: With proper care and the protective varnish, Masters are designed for indefinite display life comparable to traditionally varnished canvases.
Handling & Display (both editions)
- Handling: Hold by the edges with gloves or a microfiber cloth; support with two hands to prevent bends or creases.
- Environment: Stable, moderate conditions (about 70–75 °F, ~50% RH). Avoid bathrooms, kitchens, fireplaces, or direct HVAC flow. Keep away from smoke, adhesives, and solvents. See general tips from the Smithsonian: mci.si.edu/caring-your-paintings.
- Light: Avoid direct sun/UV. Even with UV glazing or varnish, light exposure is cumulative.
Cleaning
Limited Edition (paper)
- Dust only with a clean, very soft art brush or dry microfiber cloth. If framed behind glass, you may dust the glass with a feather duster or microfiber.
- No liquids, sprays, or solvents.
Master Edition (canvas, varnished)
Use this gentle, three-step method:
- Dry dust first: with a clean microfiber cloth or a very soft art brush (feather dusters may be used very lightly).
- If needed: Lightly dampen a clean microfiber cloth with plain water (no cleaners). Wring well so it’s barely damp, then wipe gently—no scrubbing.
- Immediately dry the surface with a second, clean dry microfiber cloth.
About cleaning guidance: You’ll see two reputable approaches—choose the one you prefer.
- Manufacturers (for coated/varnished prints): A lightly damp microfiber cloth is acceptable on sealed/varnished canvas prints—see Breathing Color – FAQ and CanvasDiscount – How to Clean Canvas Pictures.
- Museum-conservative (for original paintings): The Smithsonian Museum Conservation Institute advises against feather dusters and wet cleaning on original painted surfaces. That guidance is more conservative and aimed at unsealed paintings. See Smithsonian MCI – Caring for Your Paintings.
Your choice: Conservative = dry dust only. Practical for varnished prints = dry dust → lightly damp microfiber → dry microfiber. In all cases, avoid household cleaners.
Aaron Holley
Boxwood Boards Fine Art
Important Care & Legal Notes
- Informational only: Guidance here reflects artist and manufacturer recommendations for typical home environments. It is not conservation or legal advice.
- Longevity: Any years or “up to” figures refer to independent lab ratings under specified test conditions (e.g., Wilhelm Imaging Research). Actual results vary with display light, temperature, humidity, and handling.
- Cleaning: Instructions allowing a lightly damp microfiber cloth apply only to sealed/varnished canvas prints. Always test a small corner first, avoid over-wetting, and never use household cleaners. For originals or unvarnished works, consult a professional conservator.
- Installation: Use framing/mounting hardware rated for the artwork’s size and weight. When in doubt, consult a professional framer/installer.
- Third-party references: Mentions of brands, products, or museums are for context and do not imply affiliation or endorsement. Epson, UltraChrome, Breathing Color, and other names are trademarks of their respective owners.
- External links: Linked resources are maintained by third parties; content may change.