Unframed art prints need care before they reach the wall. A print may be waiting for the right frame, the right room or the right moment, but during that time it still needs protection. Paper is sensitive to light, humidity, pressure and handling.
Good storage does not need to be complicated. The goal is simple: keep the print clean, flat, dry, supported and away from anything that could mark or stress the paper.
This guide explains how to store unframed art prints safely at home.
Handle the print as little as possible
The safest unframed print is one that is handled carefully and rarely. Before touching the print, wash and dry your hands or use clean cotton gloves. Hold the sheet by the edges or margins, not the image surface.
If the print is large, ask another person to help so the paper does not bend under its own weight.
Store prints flat when possible
Flat storage is usually best for unframed fine art prints. It helps avoid curling, pressure marks and stress on the paper. Use a flat file, archival portfolio, rigid folder or acid-free storage box if available.
Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of prints. Pressure can leave dents, especially on textured papers.
Use archival materials
Do not place fine art prints directly against ordinary cardboard, newspaper or coloured paper. These materials may transfer acidity, marks or fibres over time.
Use acid-free tissue, archival sleeves, conservation board or other materials recommended by a professional framer. If you are unsure, ask a framer for storage materials before improvising at home.
Should you keep a print in its tube?
A shipping tube is made for transport, not long-term storage. Leaving a print rolled for too long can make it harder to flatten and may stress the paper.
If the print arrives rolled, keep it in the tube only temporarily. A professional framer can flatten it safely when you are ready to frame it.
Avoid sunlight and bright light
Unframed prints should be stored away from direct sunlight and strong light. Light can affect paper and pigments over time, even before the work is framed.
A clean, dry, dark space is usually best. Do not leave prints leaning uncovered in a bright room.
Control humidity and temperature
Works on paper do not like unstable environments. Avoid bathrooms, kitchens, basements, garages, attics or rooms with major humidity and temperature changes.
Store prints in a stable interior space. If a room feels damp, it is not ideal for art storage.
Keep certificates separate
If the print includes a Certificate of Authenticity, store it safely but separately from the artwork. Do not tape or attach it to the print. Keep the certificate flat, dry and protected with your order details and invoice.
For more on documentation, read Why Provenance Matters in Art Collecting.
Do not attempt DIY flattening
Heavy books, tape, steam, heat or household pressure can damage a print. If the paper is curled, creased or difficult to handle, speak to a professional framer.
Works on paper are easier to damage than they are to repair.
When should you frame the print?
There is no fixed deadline, but long-term storage should be intentional. If you plan to live with the artwork, framing is usually the best protection. A good frame protects the print from dust, handling and environmental changes.
Read How to Frame Fine Art Prints before choosing a frame.
Simple storage checklist
- Handle by the edges or margins.
- Use clean hands or cotton gloves.
- Store flat where possible.
- Use acid-free or archival materials.
- Keep away from light, humidity and heat.
- Avoid long-term tube storage.
- Keep certificates and invoices safe.
- Ask a framer before flattening or repairing.
How Notre Arte thinks about storing prints
Notre Arte believes a fine art print should be lived with, but never rushed into poor handling. If a work is not framed immediately, careful storage protects the object until it is ready for display.
Good care is part of collecting. It helps the artwork remain exactly what it was meant to be: a considered object, not just an image.
FAQ
How should I store unframed art prints?
Store them flat in archival materials, away from direct light, humidity, heat and pressure.
Can I keep a print in a tube?
Only temporarily. Tubes are useful for shipping but not ideal for long-term storage.
Should I use gloves when handling prints?
Clean cotton gloves are helpful. At minimum, use clean, dry hands and touch only the edges or margins.
Can I flatten a rolled print with books?
It is not recommended. Heavy objects can dent or crease the paper. Ask a professional framer for help.
Where should I not store prints?
Avoid bathrooms, kitchens, basements, garages, attics and damp or hot areas.
Should certificates be stored with the print?
Keep certificates safe and separate from the artwork, together with invoices and order records.
