The Importance of Fixative Sprays

When it comes to preserving delicate artworks created with dry media, such as pastels, pencils, and charcoal, using a fixative spray for art is essential. Fixative sprays are clear coatings designed to protect these artworks from smudging, fading, and damage over time. Not only do they help preserve the integrity of the artwork, but they also offer several benefits worth considering.

Preserving Artwork with Fixative

Fixative sprays create a protective barrier over the surface of the artwork, guarding against smudging and ensuring the longevity of the piece. This is particularly crucial for pastel artworks, as the nature of pastels makes them prone to smudging and smearing. By applying a fixative spray, you can prevent accidental smudges and keep the colors vibrant and intact.

Additionally, fixative sprays offer protection against environmental factors that can damage artworks, such as dust, moisture, and UV rays. Pastel artworks, in particular, are susceptible to these elements. The fixative spray forms a seal that shields the artwork from these harmful elements, preserving its beauty for years to come.

Benefits of Using Fixative Sprays

Using a fixative spray for pastels provides several benefits. Here are some key advantages:

• Prevents Smudging: Fixative sprays create a barrier that helps prevent smudging and smearing of dry media artworks. Once applied, the spray dries quickly, forming a protective layer over the artwork.
• Preserves Colours: By preventing smudging and fading, fixative sprays help preserve the vibrant colours of pastel artworks. This ensures that your artwork retains its original beauty and maintains its visual impact.
• Protection from Environmental Factors: Fixative sprays offer protection against dust, moisture, and UV rays that can cause damage to your artwork over time. This safeguard helps maintain the quality and longevity of the piece.
• Enhances Durability: The application of a fixative spray adds a layer of durability to your artwork. This is especially important if you plan to transport or handle the artwork frequently.

When choosing a fixative spray, consider factors such as the type of medium used, desired finish (matte or glossy), and the archival properties of the spray. It’s important to follow proper application techniques and allow sufficient drying time between coats to achieve the best results.

By incorporating fixative sprays into your artistic process, you can ensure the long-term preservation of your pastel artworks and enjoy their beauty for years to come. Remember to follow best practices for framing, display, and avoiding common mistakes to maintain the integrity and quality of your cherished creations.

Artist Perspectives on Fixative Use

When it comes to the use of fixative sprays in the world of art, different artists have varying preferences and techniques. Here, we delve into the perspectives of three artists: Michele Ashby, Clarence Porter, and Richard Suckling.

Michele Ashby’s Approach

Michele Ashby, known for her vibrant pastel work, takes a unique approach by not using fixative in her pastel pieces (Pastel Today). By forgoing the use of fixative, Ashby embraces the natural texture and delicate nature of pastels. This allows her to manipulate the colours and layers freely, creating dynamic and expressive artworks.

Clarence Porter’s Fixative Techniques

Clarence Porter, on the other hand, incorporates fixative sprays into his artistic process, but not on his final paintings. He finds that fixatives can alter the colours and intensity of pastels, which may not align with his artistic vision (Pastel Today). Instead, Porter uses fixatives during sketch-ins and for creating dark value underpaintings. This helps to provide stability and prevent smudging during the initial stages of his artwork.

Richard Suckling’s Recommendations

Richard Suckling, an accomplished pastel artist, occasionally uses a light fixative on his finished pastel artworks before sending them to collectors. He emphasizes the importance of using artist-quality fixatives specifically made for pastels, as opposed to substituting with hairspray. This ensures that the fixative does not negatively impact the colours or texture of the pastel artwork (Pastel Today).

Each artist has their own unique perspective on the use of fixative sprays, and it’s important for artists to experiment and find what works best for their individual style and desired outcomes. If you’re interested in exploring more about fixative sprays, check out our article on fixative spray for art. Remember to always follow proper application techniques and consider the compatibility of fixatives with various mediums to ensure the preservation and longevity of your artwork.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fixative Sprays

When selecting a fixative spray for your artwork, it’s important to consider certain factors to ensure you choose the right product for your needs. Two key factors to consider are the application techniques and compatibility with various mediums.

Application Techniques

Different fixative sprays may have specific application techniques that yield the best results. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the particular fixative spray you are using. However, there are some general tips to keep in mind:

• Shake the can well before use to ensure proper mixing of the ingredients.
• Hold the can at a distance of around 8-12 inches from the artwork for even coverage.
• Apply the fixative spray in thin, light coats to avoid oversaturation and potential damage to the artwork.
• Allow each layer to dry completely before applying additional coats.
• Consider using a matte fixative spray for a non-glossy finish, which can be desirable for certain types of artwork.

By following these application techniques, you can achieve the desired effects while preserving the integrity of your artwork. For detailed instructions on how to use fixative spray, refer to our article on how to use fixative spray.

Compatibility with Various Mediums

Different fixative sprays may be specifically formulated for certain mediums or provide better results with particular materials. When choosing a fixative spray, it’s important to ensure its compatibility with the medium you are working with, especially when it comes to pastels.

• For pastel artworks, it is recommended to use a fixative spray that is specifically designed for pastels. These sprays help protect pastel artworks from environmental factors like dust, moisture, and UV rays, preserving colours and preventing damage over time (Everything Art).
• Spectra Fix is a popular water-based fixative spray for pastels, based on the recipe used by Edgar Degas. It is non-toxic and does not alter the sheen of the artwork. Applying 2-3 thin layers of Spectra Fix ensures optimal smudge protection (Everything Art).

Additionally, consider the medium you are working with. Some fixative sprays may be more suitable for graphite drawings, while others may work better with coloured pencils. It’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and consider the specific needs of your artwork.

By considering the application techniques and compatibility with various mediums, you can select a fixative spray that meets your specific artistic requirements. Remember to always test the fixative spray on a small area of your artwork or a test piece before applying it to the entire piece to ensure compatibility and desired results.

Best Practices for Applying Fixative Sprays

When it comes to applying fixative sprays to your artwork, there are certain best practices to follow in order to achieve optimal results. By using thin and even coats and allowing for proper drying time, you can ensure that your pastel artwork is effectively preserved and protected.

Thin and Even Coats

To achieve the best coverage and protection for your pastel artwork, it is recommended to apply multiple thin coats of fixative spray rather than one heavy coat. This approach allows for even distribution of the fixative and minimizes the risk of oversaturation or pooling of the spray.

When applying the fixative spray, hold the can approximately 25-35cm away from your artwork. Begin by pressing the nozzle firmly while moving the can evenly from side to side. This technique helps to create a thin and consistent layer of fixative across the surface of your artwork.

By applying thin and even coats, you can effectively seal the layers of pastel and prevent smudging or blending of the colours. It is important to note that excessive or heavy application of fixative spray can result in a glossy finish or alter the appearance of the artwork. Therefore, it is recommended to exercise caution and adhere to the principle of thin and even coats.

Proper Drying Time

Allowing the fixative spray to dry completely between coats is essential for achieving the desired results. The drying time can vary depending on the specific fixative spray used, so it is important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance.

For example, Pro Art Fixative Spray is known for its quick drying time of approximately 5 minutes (My Art Shop). It is crucial to adhere to the recommended drying time to avoid smudging or smearing the pastel colours.

While waiting for the fixative spray to dry, it is advisable to place your artwork on a clean and flat surface, away from any potential sources of dust or contaminants. This ensures that the fixative can properly bond with the pastel layers and create a protective barrier.

Additionally, it is important to note that fixative sprays may emit fumes during the drying process, so it is advisable to work in a well-ventilated area or consider using a protective mask if necessary.

By following these best practices of applying thin and even coats of fixative spray and allowing for proper drying time, you can effectively preserve and protect your pastel artwork. Remember to refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of the fixative spray you are using to ensure optimal results. For more information on fixative sprays and their application, check out our article on fixative spray for art.

Tips for Long-Term Preservation

To ensure the long-term preservation of your pastel artworks, it’s crucial to follow proper framing and display recommendations. Additionally, avoiding common mistakes can help protect your artwork from potential damage.

Framing and Display Recommendations

When it comes to framing pastel paintings, certain considerations are essential to protect your artwork and maintain its beauty over time. Here are some key recommendations:

1. Avoid direct contact with glass: Never allow the pastel painting to touch the glass, as the pastel particles can stick to the surface, potentially ruining the artwork. To create a space between the glass and the painting, you can use a mount, a visible slip, or an invisible spacer. This simple technique helps prevent any contact and maintains the integrity of the artwork (Sophie Ploeg).
2. Choose the right framing materials: Opt for high-quality materials when framing your pastel paintings. Use acid-free mats, backing boards, and tapes to ensure the longevity of the artwork. It’s also advisable to select UV-resistant glass or acrylic glazing to protect the artwork from harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause fading.
3. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight: Pastel paintings are highly sensitive to moisture, so it’s crucial to keep them away from humid environments such as bathrooms and kitchens (Sophie Ploeg). Additionally, avoid displaying your artwork in direct sunlight, as the heat can create humidity that may damage the delicate pastel particles. Choose a location that provides a stable environment with controlled humidity and minimal exposure to sunlight.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

To preserve your pastel artworks effectively, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes that can lead to damage:

1. Improper handling: Handle pastel paintings with care to prevent smudging or accidental damage. Avoid touching the surface of the painting, as the pastel particles are fragile and can easily be disturbed. When moving or transporting the artwork, use protective coverings or sleeves to minimize the risk of smudging.
2. Inadequate framing: Improper framing can lead to damage over time. Avoid using cheap acrylic sheets or plexiglass, as they can create an electric charge that pulls the pastel particles off the paper (Sophie Ploeg). Invest in professional framing services or consult a framer experienced in handling pastel paintings to ensure the artwork is properly mounted, framed, and protected.
3. Lack of dust protection: Dust can accumulate on the surface of pastel paintings, dulling their vibrancy. Regularly clean the framed artwork using a soft brush or compressed air to remove any dust particles. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure or rub the surface, as it can smudge the pastel.

By following these framing and display recommendations and avoiding common mistakes, you can help preserve the beauty and integrity of your pastel artworks for years to come. Remember, proper care and handling are essential to maintain the delicate nature of pastel paintings and showcase them in their full glory. For more information on fixative sprays and their role in preserving pastel artwork, refer to our previous sections on fixative spray for art and matte fixative spray.