If you’ve just picked up that to-die-for Gray Malin print you’ve been saving up for (or you currently have your eye on something in the shop), then the next step is to keep it looking just like it did the day it arrived on your doorstep. Let us start with a little background: in case you haven’t acquainted yourself with the basics of our framing process, let us direct you to this page for the full rundown. All of our framed prints are protected by UV filtering plexiglass that will prolong the life of your print and reduce glare, and a clean gallery frame that allows tons of versatility for styling it in your space.

While we frame every print with care and the most professional services, it will still benefit you to know how to care for your print in the following years that it lives in your home. After all, a good print will last a lifetime! So get ready to bookmark this page, and keep it handy for when your print arrives, because these tips will keep your new print in tip top shape for years to come…

DO NOT: Dust with your hand or a cloth.

Yep, it’s true! Dusting with your hand or a cloth (no matter how soft it is) can actually grind dust into your frame, instead of removing it.

DO: Dust your frame using air.

Instead, simply blow the dust off of your frame when it settles. You can even use a blow drier several inches away from your frame (ONLY on the lowest “cool” setting, never with heat) to get rid of dust.

DO NOT: Use household cleaners.

We know, we know… Windex is the most satisfying cleaning agent to use to get those windows and glass around the house spick and span, but avoid using it on your print. Products that contain ammonia will damage plexiglass and make your once crystal clear print look hazy.

DO: Use mild soap and water.

Mild dish soap comes to the rescue, yet again. Create a solution with just a drop or two of soap and water in a spray bottle, and spray onto your plexiglass. Then, wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. If you insist on using a cleaning product, stick to acrylic cleaners only, like Novus #1 or Brillianize.

DO NOT: Hang your print in direct sunlight.

While the UV filtering plexiglass we use on all GM prints keeps out over 90 percent of harmful UV rays, that doesn’t mean that prolonged exposure in direct sunlight won’t damage your print. Over many years, direct sunlight beating down on your print can fade colors and make it appear less vibrant than it once was, even under UV protected glass.

DO: Hang your print in a well-lit room.

Instead, hang your print in a room with plenty of indirect sunlight. As long as the sun isn’t shining directly through a window onto your frame, your print will last for years to come, and the natural light will illuminate your print in the best way.

When in Doubt: Avoid the 3 A’s.

If you can’t remember the details, simply avoid ammonia, abrasives, and aromatics. When it comes to plexiglass, the simpler your cleaning regimen, the better.

Easy as that! Now, for the first step… buy the art. We’ll make it easy for you and just leave this link to the GM shop right here… ;)

Happy shopping!

Xx Team GM

Photos: 1. Devin Brugman, 2. Marianna Hewitt, 3. Mrs. Lilien