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Tips on Cleaning an Oil Painting

We know how much you care about your priceless works of art but we also know how exorbitant cleaning charges can be. To reach a compromise, here are a few methods you can utilize in cleaning oil paintings and consequently, lessen the trips to the professional cleaner.

We know how much you care about your priceless works of art but we also know how exorbitant cleaning charges can be. To reach a compromise, here are a few methods you can utilize in cleaning oil paintings and consequently, lessen the trips to the professional cleaner.

No More Varnish
Perhaps, decades ago, even the experts suggest this as the key to cleaning and proper maintenance of oil paintings. But now, exports know better. Whereas before, varnish was initially used to cover and protect the impasto of an oil painting – that’s the term used to describe the thick coat of paint used in oil paintings – now, they’ve discovered that using varnish can actually damage the oil painting in the long run. How does this happen? Because of its reaction to environmental changes, varnish may lead the oil painting to look older and duller than it originally was.

But If You Did Apply Varnish Before:
Well, that’s okay, there’s still hope for your oil painting. Try to see if it’s only the varnish that’s making the oil painting look dull and lifeless. If that’s the case, you could consider using a conversation liquid. You may also purchase a solvent called emulsion – usually sold in art supplies stores – which can clean and remove varnish. Beware, though, because emulsion may also just lead to more damage to your oil painting. Use this only if you’re willing to face the risks. Secondly, try spot-testing first to see how it can affect the surface of the painting and do work in a room with good ventilation.

Dusting And Brushing
So you’ve finally noticed that a lot of dirt and dust have accumulated on the surface of the oil painting. You’re just itching to clean the whole thing up, aren’t you? But patience, my dear, is a virtue. We’ll come to that in good time. First, do assess the painting and see if there are any cracks or paint that’s about to flake off. Nada? Okay, now you can proceed with the dusting and brushing. Do make sure though that you use a gentle brush, like a baby’s toothbrush or one used for shaving cream.

Blotting
If on the other hand, the surface of your oil painting isn’t dusty as much as it seems grimy and oily, another cleaning method must be utilized in this case. Now, you may have to use a detergent solution – and do make sure that it’s an extremely mild one – which brings itself a number of risks because its very components are not compatible with the components of an oil painting. Anyway, if you wish to proceed, just make sure that you only lightly blot the painting with the help of clean cotton cloths that have never been used. Never ever wipe or rub!