Handling & Care Guidelines

Soft Pastel Artwork: Handling & Care Guidelines
Soft pastel paintings are delicate. Unlike oil or acrylic, the pigment rests on the surface and remains vulnerable to disturbance for up to a decade when the pastel binder gradually stabilises, but during this period careful handling is essential. The older a pastel painting, the more stable it becomes.
Improper handling; such as carrying or storing a work face down or packing multiple works face-to-face, can cause loose pigment to fall. These particles may settle on the inside of the glass or matboard, affecting the presentation of the work, requiring the glass to be cleaned, and possibly the matboard to be replaced.
Handling Guidelines for Soft Pastel Paintings.

Always carry and transport paintings face up
When leaning works against a wall, place them face outward
Avoid packing works face-to-face
Ensure packaging is labelled on the front only, so the work is not turned unnecessarily
Do not expose the work to direct sunlight, as heat may cause condensation under the glass

Packaging Guidelines
Careful packaging is essential. Always assume the artwork may be handled roughly in transit.

Never tape directly onto the glass
Use corner protectors (or make them from cardboard)
Place the painting face up on bubble wrap (smooth side up) and secure with packing tape
Add a rigid protective layer (cardboard or MDF), cut 2cm larger than the artwork all round
For additional protection, place a second board underneath so the work is sandwiched and taped securely across the corners
Wrap again in bubble wrap
Place inside a strong outer cardboard layer or suitable sturdy cardboard box

Clearly label the front of the package:

Fragile
This Side Up
Top Stow
Do Not Drop or Crush

Ensure all labels are visible on the front-facing side only.
Dispatch & Records

Photograph the packaged artwork before sending
Retain tracking details
Notify the gallery or client with tracking information and expected delivery timing