About Soft Pastels

Soft pastel is unlike any other art medium. It is one of the longest lasting mediums, made of pure pigment and a binder. It is a dry medium, but if touched, it will come off, smear, and damage your painting. Because of its delicate nature, it's important to handle it carefully and frame it properly. I ship my original pastel artwork unframed and protected between foam core board and secured with glassine paper. To avoid damage or smudging, I recommend that you keep it flat and protected under the glassine paper until you're ready to have it framed. Here are some tips that will help you as you handle and prepare to frame your painting.

• It is best for you to keep your pastel painting in its protective cover until you have it framed. I suggest that you allow the framer to remove the painting, but if you’re framing it yourself, remove it very carefully, avoiding rubbing or touching the painting. The tape I’ve used to secure the painting is artist's tape, so it should be removed slowly to prevent any tearing.
• It is important not to touch the surface, so it should be protected under glass in a frame. If your framer asks you about applying fixative to the painting before framing, say "NO FIXATIVE". Actually, don't wait for them to ask. Let them know in advance not to add fixative before framing. Fixative typically alters the color in your painting, and you don't want that.
• Paintings can be framed with or without matting. If you do not use matting, spacers must be used to create a barrier between the glass and the painting. If your painting touches the glass, pastel dust will smear against it. A good framer will know exactly how to do this. When framing, I often choose a glass that lessens glare and has a UV protectant. It is more expensive, but it brings out the clarity of the painting and adds an extra layer of protection. 
• Avoid hanging any original artwork in a location where it will receive strong light or direct sunlight. Also avoid hanging any pastel painting in a room that typically has a lot of moisture, like a bathroom.

I am happy to answer any questions you may have concerning framing your pastel artwork. I want you to be able to enjoy your painting for many years to come.