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"Finding and bringing home that perfect print or painting is often the most exciting part of collecting. The challenge: keeping each piece looking good as new, even decades later. In fact, caring for your artwork begins before it even goes up on the wall. Here, two art-world insiders share their advice.\n\nFrame it right.  \u201CIf you\u2019re going to spend money on a piece of art, spend money on framing it,\u201D says Lindsay Griffith, a specialist of prints and multiples at Christie\u2019s. While the style of the frame is an aesthetic preference, it should always be well-made, with corners that are properly joined (that means no gaps). Never cut down your art to fit the frame. If you\u2019re unsure how to move forward, A. I. Friedman in New York is a great resource for getting something properly matted and mounted, says Griffith.\n\nLocation, location, location.  Although you might adore your sunroom, it\u2019s not a good place for photographs or works of art on paper. The two major culprits for faded or warped artwork are extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, says 20x200 head curator and founder Jen Bekman. Other spots to stay away from: steamy baths or right above a radiator. Heading out? Ask a friend to stop by and crack a window or adjusting the thermostat as needed. For longer trips, arrange for professional storage for investment pieces.\n\nConsider plexiglass.  While you might immediately think of investing in nonreflective museum glass, Bekman and Griffith both prefer UV plexiglass, which not only protects your artwork from harsh sunlight but is much lighter and less prone to breaking. No matter which type you choose, take extra care when cleaning the surface, says Bekman. Use a product that won\u2019t streak or damage the finish, such as Novus Plastic Polish, once a month, applying it with a soft microfiber cloth (a paper towel can scratch). Avoid spraying any cleaner directly onto the glass\u2014it could drip and seep onto the art. Once a week, lightly dust the frame, which can get grimy on the top edge, and relevel it if necessary.\n\nHandle it with care.  Moving a piece to a new home\u2014whether it\u2019s just to a different room or to an entirely new residence\u2014requires a gentle touch. Always pack prints flat and try not to jostle them. \u201CIf something bad happens to your art, don\u2019t ignore it,\u201D says Griffith. Contact a local auction house, frame shop or gallery to find a conservationist who can help."^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/how-to-clean-care-art-expert-tips>