How to Store Art Prints Properly When Not in Use: A Complete Care Guide

Whether you're rotating your gallery wall or simply have more prints than wall space, proper storage is essential to keep your art prints in pristine condition. Paper Collective prints, like the popular Flower Studies 03 - Stensöta or the vibrant Cities of Basketball 09 - San Francisco, are investments in your home's aesthetic—so you want to protect them for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for storing art prints, from climate control to protective materials, ensuring your collection remains as beautiful as the day it arrived.

Improper storage can lead to yellowing, warping, moisture damage, or even fading. But with a few simple steps, you can safeguard your prints against these common threats. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of affordable art, these tips will help you preserve your Paper Collective prints for future enjoyment.

Why Proper Storage Matters for Art Prints

Art prints are delicate. Even though they are printed on high-quality paper, they are susceptible to environmental factors like light, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Over time, exposure to UV rays can cause colors to fade, while high humidity can lead to mold or paper cockling. Conversely, very dry conditions can make paper brittle. By storing your prints correctly, you not only protect your purchase but also maintain the print's value and visual appeal.

Paper Collective uses archival-quality inks and paper, but no material is immune to improper handling. Think of your print as a piece of art that deserves the same care as a canvas painting. Whether it’s a limited edition or an open edition, taking the time to store it properly will pay off when you decide to display it again.

• UV rays can fade colors within weeks if prints are stored near windows.
• Humidity above 60% encourages mold growth; below 30% can cause cracking.
• Temperature swings cause paper to expand and contract, leading to warping.

Essential Materials for Storing Art Prints

To store your prints safely, you don’t need expensive equipment—just a few key supplies. First, invest in acid-free tissue paper or glassine paper to wrap each print individually. Acid-free materials prevent chemical reactions that cause yellowing. Avoid regular newspaper or colored tissue, as they can transfer acids or dyes to the print.

Next, consider flat storage in a portfolio box or a print drawer. If you must roll prints, use a sturdy tube with acid-free paper lining. Never roll a print too tightly, as this can cause creases. For extra protection, place prints inside archival-quality plastic sleeves (polypropylene or polyester) to guard against dust and moisture. Products like the Albufeira print are often stored this way by collectors.

• Use acid-free tissue or glassine for wrapping.
• Store flat in a portfolio box or drawer whenever possible.
• If rolling, use a tube with at least 4-inch diameter and acid-free inner wrap.

Optimal Environmental Conditions for Print Storage

The ideal environment for storing art prints is cool, dark, and stable. Aim for a temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and relative humidity around 40-50%. Avoid attics, basements, or garages where temperature and humidity fluctuate wildly. Instead, choose a closet or a room with consistent climate control.

Light is another critical factor. Store prints in complete darkness or under UV-filtered lighting if you must have them in a lit area. Even indirect sunlight can cause cumulative damage. If you have multiple prints, store them vertically in a filing cabinet or flat in a box, but never stack them without protective layers in between. For example, the White Vallmo print’s delicate white tones can yellow if exposed to light over time.

• Keep temperature between 60-75°F and humidity at 40-50%.
• Store in a dark place—use a closet or drawer away from windows.
• Avoid areas prone to moisture like basements or bathrooms.

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Your Paper Collective Prints

Follow these steps to store your prints like a pro. First, ensure your hands are clean and dry, or wear cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils to the paper. Lay the print face up on a clean, flat surface. Place a sheet of acid-free tissue over the print, then carefully roll it (if necessary) or place it in a flat sleeve.

For flat storage, slide the sleeved print into a portfolio box or between two sheets of acid-free board. Label the outside of the box or sleeve with the print name and date for easy retrieval. If you’re storing multiple prints, separate each with a sheet of acid-free paper. For rolled storage, insert the print into the tube, cap it, and store horizontally to prevent the roll from shifting. Prints like Entropy Sand 02 benefit from this method due to their larger size.

• Wear cotton gloves to avoid fingerprints.
• Use acid-free sleeves or tissue for each print.
• Label storage containers for easy identification.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Art Prints

Even well-intentioned collectors make mistakes. One common error is using magnetic photo albums or sticky pages, which can damage the print surface. Another is storing prints in plastic bags not meant for archival use—PVC can off-gas and cause discoloration. Avoid using rubber bands or tape directly on the print, as they can leave residue or tear the paper.

Also, never store prints in areas with high humidity like bathrooms or near kitchen vents. If you live in a humid climate, consider adding silica gel packs to your storage box (but keep them away from direct contact with the print). Finally, don’t forget to check on your stored prints periodically—every six months is a good interval to ensure no issues have developed. The Distinct print, for example, might show early signs of damage if stored improperly.

• Avoid PVC plastics, rubber bands, and tape.
• Do not store in humid rooms like bathrooms.
• Check prints every 6 months for signs of damage.

Proper storage is the key to preserving your art prints for years of enjoyment. By controlling the environment, using acid-free materials, and handling prints with care, you can keep your Paper Collective collection looking fresh and vibrant. Ready to start your collection or need a new print to display? Explore the beautiful Flower Studies 03 - Stensöta and give it the home it deserves—both on your wall and in storage.