How to Preserve and Display Your Wedding Painting
If you’ve had your wedding painted already or are hoping to book a wedding painter- you might be wondering how the finished painting will last in your home as a display. It’s a great question- how do you ensure it remains pristine and continues to tell your love story for many more decades? In this article, we’ll guide you through how to preserve and display your wedding painting to maintain its beauty and significance.
Step 1: Choose the Right Frame (Or Go Frameless!)
The right frame doesn’t just enhance the beauty of the painting- it protects it. However not all paintings require a frame. If your painting was created on stretched canvas, it can be displayed beautifully without a frame. Many couples choose to showcase the textured edges of a stretched canvas as it is. Giving it a modern, gallery style look. Though if you do prefer a framed look, you’ll need a custom built floating frame which surrounds the edges without covering any of the canvas.
A floating frame adds a sleek, elegant touch, but unlike traditional frames, it doesn’t allow for glass protection over the painting. This is important to keep in mind if you want additional protection for the artwork.
If your wedding painting was done on a wood panel or board, framing is essential to display it properly. Unlike stretched canvas, a wood panel needs the structure a frame provides to hang securely. The advantage of board paintings is that you can opt for a traditional frame, which allows you to use UV-protective glass or acrylic over the artwork. This gives added protection against dust and environmental elements.
Quick Frame Tip:
Stretched canvas: Can be displayed without a frame or in a custom floating frame, but no glass protection is possible.
Wood panel/board: Must be framed for display and can include a glass or acrylic sheet for added protection.
When selecting a frame, consider your wedding’s colour palette or the room where the painting will be displayed for a cohesive look.
Step 2: Avoid Direct Sunlight and Extreme Conditions
One of the biggest enemies of any painting is sunlight. Place your wedding painting in a spot that doesn’t receive direct sunlight, as this can cause fading. Similarly, avoid hanging your painting in areas prone to over-humidity or fluctuating temperatures such as bathrooms or kitchens. Extreme temperatures and moisture can warp the canvas or affect the light-fast quality of the paint. Ensure your painting is displayed in a climate-controlled area to maintain it’s integrity.
Best Places to Display
Living Room walls away from windows
Bedroom walls
Hallways or home galleries
Step 3: Dust Gently and Avoid Harsh Cleaners
When dusting your wedding painting, avoid using any harsh cleaners or sprays, as these can damage the surface of the painting. Instead, use a soft dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dust. If the painting is framed with glass, you can use a glass cleaner on the exterior but make sure not to spray directly onto the painting, as liquid can seep through and cause damage.
Quick Tip:
Dust your painting monthly to prevent buildup, especially if it's displayed in a high-traffic area.
Step 4: Regular Inspections
Over time, even the best-preserved paintings can encounter wear and tear. Inspect your wedding painting regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the paint, changes in texture or fading. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to consult a professional art restorer. Always best to address minor damage early on rather than wait for it to worsen.
Step 5: Create the Perfect Display
Your wedding painting deserves a prominent place in your home, where it can be admired properly. Whether you choose to display it above your mantle, your bedroom or as part of a gallery wall, make sure it’s placed at eye level for optimal viewing. For those with multiple wedding momentos, consider creating a dedicated space that includes your painting alongside your wedding album or other framed photography of the day.
Creative Display Ideas:
Gallery Wall: Curate a collection of wedding-related items, including your painting, photos, and your invitation.
Dedicated Wedding Nook: Design a corner of your living room or bedroom with wedding memories, centered around your painting.
Spotlighting: Install soft lighting to gently illuminate the painting, making it a stunning focal point, especially in the evenings.
Final Thoughts
By taking these simple steps to preserve and display your painting, you’ll ensure it continues to tell your love story for years to come.
With proper care and display, your wedding painting will remain a cherished part of your legacy.