Tips for Preserving Your Coloring Book Art
We all love our adult color books and creating coloring pages for fun, and the more we do it the more we find we are proud of what comes out! Persevering your completed artwork is part of all the joy and fun to be able to enjoy it later, or to reflect on how far you’ve come from when you started. It doesn’t matter if you use colored pencils, markers, gel pens, or even watercolors–your creations deserve to be taken care of. So, let’s go through the top tips on how to protect and care for your completed coloring book pages, so they stay in perfect condition, and you can keep coloring!
1. Store Your Coloring Pages Flat
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your coloring book pages. Once you finish a page, make sure you store it flat to prevent wrinkles or creases. Many people use folders or plastic sleeves designed for artwork, which also keep dust and dirt away.
If your coloring book pages are removable, you can organize them in a three-ring binder with clear plastic protectors. This not only keeps your coloring pages flat and safe, but it also allows you to easily flip through your collection.
2. Protect Your Coloring Pages from Sunlight
UV rays from sunlight can fade colors, whether you’ve used colored pencils, markers, or water-based paints. While it’s tempting to display your coloring art in a bright room, always try to avoid direct sunlight. To preserve your work’s vibrancy, display your coloring book pages in areas with minimal light exposure or use UV-resistant frames.
3. Seal Your Artwork for Long-Term Preservation
To protect coloring pages from smudging or damage, especially if you’ve used mediums like colored pencils, pastels, or chalk, consider using a fixative spray. This type of spray seals your artwork and prevents smudging, making it a great option for pages in adult coloring books where details are intricate. Always spray in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions on the product for the best results.
For ink-based mediums like gel pens or markers, while fixative spray isn’t always necessary, using one can add a layer of protection and keep the colors bright over time.
4. Frame Your Finished Coloring Pages
One of the best ways to showcase and protect your coloring book artwork is by framing it. Using glass or acrylic frames not only displays your art beautifully but also shields it from dust, moisture, and potential damage. Look for frames with UV protection to ensure your artwork remains vibrant and doesn’t fade over time.
If you prefer a more casual approach, you can hang your coloring pages using clips or wall adhesives, as long as they’re placed in safe, protected areas.
5. Handle Your Coloring Pages Carefully
Touching your completed coloring pages can leave oils from your skin on the artwork, which might degrade the colors over time. To avoid this, try to handle your pages by the edges or use clean cotton gloves when moving or framing your art. Keeping the surface of your artwork free from fingerprints will maintain its original look and feel for longer.
6. Digitally Archive Your Artwork
One great way to protect your coloring book pages from damage is by creating a digital archive. You can scan or photograph your finished coloring pages to create digital copies. This ensures you’ll always have a record of your work, even if something happens to the original. It’s also a fantastic way to share your artwork on social media or create digital portfolios.
Caring for your completed coloring book pages ensures that all the time and effort you’ve put into your art is preserved for years to come. Whether you’re an avid fan of adult coloring books, love to relax with coloring pages, or even create your own, these tips will help keep your artwork in pristine condition. From storage and framing to sealing your work, following these steps will allow you to enjoy your vibrant, detailed creations again and again.
By incorporating these care practices into your coloring routine, you’ll be able to maintain the quality of your pages and build a lasting collection of art!
