Framing Your Soft Pastel Art for Stunning Displays

Buying your first piece of soft pastel art can be an exciting! Framing your newly purchased original art is vital. The right frame not only protects your artwork but also enhances its beauty, making it essential for presentation. This guide will explore techniques, tips, and tricks for framing your soft pastel art to achieve stunning displays in your home.

Understanding Soft Pastel Art

Pastel paintings aren’t like traditional paint on canvas—they’re a little more delicate to handle. The upside? Pastels are some of the most vibrant and long-lasting art mediums out there. Soft pastels are created by forming pure artist’s pigment into a stick with a

minimum of binder. This is the same pigment used in oil paintings except oil paint is bound together with liquid, which can degrade and yellow over time. Since there is nothing in the pastel to degrade, your heirloom-quality painting will remain pure and vibrant as long as it is protected from sun and water.

I use professional pastel paper, which means there should be minimal shedding of pastel particles, but if your pastel has a slight “shedding” this is normal! The dust is part of the charm. Please do not touch the surface or try to rub any particles away. I recommend

storing your painting flat until you have taken it to be framed.

Due to their delicate nature, I highly suggest working with a professional frame who is experienced with handing pastels. Decline any use of spray fixative as this can change the colors of your piece and ruin the painting. I recommend using museum glass as the

glass is virtually invisible, letting your painting shine through! A professional framer will be able to advise you on the best materials and framing methods that will keep your painting looking fresh and beautiful.

Choose a spot in your home out of direct sunlight and away from excessive moisture. Sunlight can cause pigments to fade and damage your paper. Moisture from showers, bathrooms, and certain spots in the kitchen can also creep into your piece and affect the

paper. As long as your painting is properly cared for, it should last for generations.

Choosing the Right Frame

When selecting a frame, consider both the style of your art and the environment in which it will be displayed. Here are some popular frame styles to consider:

1. Traditional Frames

Traditional wooden frames add classic elegance to your soft pastel pieces. Choosing natural wood or classic colors like white can help enhance your artwork's colors. Traditional frames are versatile and fit well in various settings.

Traditional wooden frame emphasizing soft pastel art

2. Modern Frames

If you prefer a sleek look, modern metal frames or minimalist designs can serve as excellent options. These frames let the art shine without overshadowing it, creating an elegant contrast to the colorful pastels. For example, a thin black metal frame can provide a striking difference against bright artwork.

3. Gallery Frames

Gallery frames provide a professional look that often comes with mats that complement your artwork, adding depth and focus. Opt for a white or off-white mat for a clean, classic appearance or take it up a notch by selecting a mat color that highlights your pastels. This can create an appealing contrast, making your artwork pop even more.

Matting Your Art

Matting is essential when framing soft pastels. It serves several purposes:

• Protection: Mats create a barrier between the glass and your artwork, preventing smudging or sticking. Using a mat can reduce touch points and maintain the texture of your soft pastel art.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Mats enhance your artwork by creating a visual separation between the art and frame, allowing the colors to stand out. A well-chosen mat can add a sophisticated touch, elevating the overall presentation.

  
  

When choosing a mat, ensure it is acid-free to prevent fading. A simple, solid-color mat often works best. However, experimenting with complementary colors can yield stunning results, especially if your artwork features prominent hues.

Glass or Acrylic?

Deciding between glass or acrylic for your frame is also crucial. Both options protect your artwork, but they come with their pros and cons:

Glass

• Pros: Scratch-resistant and provides excellent clarity, which enhances the visibility of the artwork.

  
  

• Cons: Heavier

  
  

Acrylic

• Pros: Lightweight and shatterproof.

  
  

• Cons: More prone to scratching and may require more frequent cleaning to maintain clarity.

  
  

For soft pastels, consider using museum glass, such as Tru Vue. This exceptional glass nearly eliminates reflections and blocks nearly all harmful UV rays, ensuring your art remains vibrant and true to its original colors.

Preparing Your Artwork for Framing

To ensure a successful framing process, prepare your soft pastel artwork properly by following these steps:

1. Ensure Cleanliness: Before placing your art in the frame, clean the glass or acrylic thoroughly to eliminate dust and fingerprints. This simple step can enhance the clarity of your artwork.

   
   

2. Centering the Artwork: When placing your artwork in the frame, take extra care to center it correctly. Adjust using the mat if necessary to maintain proper alignment.

   
   

3. Careful handling of the Artwork: When placing your artwork in the frame, ensure you do not actually touch the painted portion or you risk smudging the pigments.

   
   

Display Tips for Framed Soft Pastel Art

After framing, it's time to hang your artwork! Here are some tips to ensure a captivating display:

1. Create a Gallery Wall

Mixing multiple framed soft pastel pieces can produce an eye-catching gallery wall. Combine different sizes and orientations while maintaining a consistent theme or color palette. For example, a soft pastel collection with both floral and abstract styles can create a dynamic yet cohesive arrangement.

2. Consider Height and Placement

Hang your artwork at eye level to encourage appreciation. Research shows that artwork placed at eye level is viewed 80% more than those positioned higher. If displaying multiple pieces, align the center point of the artworks for a balanced look.

3. Lighting Matters

Incorporating proper lighting is essential for highlighting your artwork. Natural light is ideal, but if unavailable, opt for adjustable lighting solutions that can be focused on your art. Art lights can enhance the vibrancy of your pieces, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Maintenance and Care

To maintain your framed soft pastel artwork’s beauty, regular care is necessary. Here are some practical tips:

• Dust Regularly: Use a soft cloth to dust the frame and glass to preserve clarity and freshness.

  
  

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Reduce exposure to direct sunlight, as prolonged light can cause fading. Consider using curtains or UV-filtering window films to protect your pieces.

  
  

• Check for Damage: Periodically inspect your frames and mats for any damage, such as moisture or discoloration, to ensure ongoing preservation.

  
  

Bring Your Art to Life

Framing your original soft pastel artwork not only enhances its beauty but also ensures your piece is displayed in stunning detail. By following these guidelines, you can choose the right frame, use effective matting, and make informed decisions about glazing and placement. A well-framed piece protects your artwork and allows you to view all of its colorful beauty.

So, unleash your creativity with thoughtful framing techniques, and watch as your soft pastel art become the centerpiece of admiration in your home!