Completing a paint by numbers painting is a gratifying experience. Whether you're an amateur or a seasoned artist, each finished piece represents effort, patience, and creativity. Once completed, many artists want to preserve these works as mementos, decorations, or gifts. However, storing finished Paint by Numbers paintings requires care to ensure that the colors, structure, and integrity of the artwork remain intact over time. The following steps will ensure your finished pieces are stored properly and well preserved.

1. Preparing the Painting for Storage

Before you can properly store your paint by numbers artwork, it’s important to make sure the painting is completely dry. Paint by numbers kits use acrylic paints, which dry relatively quickly, but thicker layers or specific colors might take longer to dry fully.

• Drying Time: Allow at least 24-48 hours for the painting to dry completely. If you're unsure, gently touch the thickest painted sections to check for tackiness.
• Seal the Painting: Sealing your painting with a protective varnish is optional, but it can extend the lifespan of the colors and shield the artwork from dust, moisture, and UV rays. You can use a glossy or matte varnish, depending on your preference for the final finish. Make sure to apply an even coat across the entire surface and let it dry for 24-48 hours.

2. Choosing a Storage Location

Selecting the right location is essential to maintain the integrity of your artwork. Avoid exposing your painting to moisture, direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or fluctuating humidity.

• Cool and Dry: Opt for a cool, dry area such as a closet, storage room, or drawer. Avoid basements, attics, and garages as these spaces are prone to dampness and temperature fluctuations, which can cause paint to warp or crack.
• Away from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause colors to fade. If you're not framing the piece immediately, ensure it’s stored in a dark environment.

3. Short-Term Storage Solutions

If you’re not ready to frame or display your Paint by Numbers painting right away, short-term storage options are necessary to keep it safe until you make a final decision.

• Use a Portfolio: Art portfolios with protective sleeves are a great way to store flat, finished paintings. They keep the artwork safe from dust, moisture, and physical damage. These portfolios come in different sizes, providing a protective sleeve for your painting. 
• Flat Storage Box: Another option is a flat storage box, similar to the kind used for storing photos or important documents. It will keep your artwork free from dust and help prevent bending or creasing. You can place several paintings in one box, but be sure to insert a sheet of wax or parchment paper between each piece to avoid paint sticking to other surfaces.
• Rolling the Canvas: If you're short on space and need a compact solution, rolling your canvas is an effective option. However, be sure to roll the painting with the artwork facing outward, using acid-free tissue paper between layers. Then, secure the rolled canvas with soft bands or a tube to keep it from unrolling. Avoid rolling too tightly to prevent creases or cracks in the paint.

4. Long-Term Storage Solutions

For long-term storage, the goal is to provide maximum protection from dust, dirt, environmental factors, and physical damage.

• Archival Boxes: Consider using archival-quality storage boxes for long-term preservation. These boxes are acid-free and designed to protect delicate artwork from deterioration. Archival boxes are ideal for artists who want to preserve their work for years without worrying about environmental damage.
• Framing the Painting: One of the best ways to store and display your paint by numbers artwork long-term is by framing it. A high-quality frame protects the painting from physical damage while adding an aesthetic appeal. You can choose from a variety of frames—traditional wood, modern metal, or sleek acrylic—depending on the style you prefer. Additionally, you can add a glass or acrylic cover for added protection against dust, dirt, and UV rays.
• Canvas Stretchers: For canvases that aren’t framed, storing them flat or gently rolling them with care (as mentioned earlier) is a good long-term option. However, it’s essential to ensure that they are rolled and stored in an environment that is stable in terms of temperature and humidity.

5. Displaying Your Paint by Numbers Artwork

Showcasing your artwork instead of storing it! Displaying your art is a way of celebrating your creativity and sharing it with others. Here are some tips to safely display your finished piece:

• Hanging on the Wall: After framing,  hang your painting in a room where it will be out of direct sunlight or excessive humidity (like kitchens and bathrooms). Living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways are generally safe options.
• Using an Easel: For a more casual display, you can use an easel to showcase your painting. This method also allows for easy repositioning.
• Rotating Your Collection: If you complete multiple paint by numbers projects, consider rotating them in your display areas. This way, all your hard work gets to be seen, and you can prevent any single piece from becoming overexposed to environmental factors.

6. Caring for Your Stored Paintings

Even if you’re storing your paintings for the long term, it’s essential to check on them periodically to ensure they’re in good condition. A regular inspection around every six months to ensure the painting shows no signs of mold, discoloration, or fading. If possible, store your paintings in a climate-controlled environment, where temperature and humidity levels remain stable. Extreme humidity can cause mildew, while dry conditions can lead to paint cracking. If you notice dust or dirt accumulating on the surface of the painting, you can gently clean it with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid using any liquids or cleaners that might damage the paint.

Conclusion

Storing your finished painting properly ensures that your hard work lasts for years to come. Whether you’re preserving the artwork for personal enjoyment or preparing it as a gift, taking steps to protect it from environmental factors like moisture, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations is key. From short-term solutions like portfolios and flat boxes to long-term strategies like framing and archival storage, there are various options to suit your needs and space. With the right care, your Paint by Numbers artwork will remain a vibrant and treasured piece for years.

Happy painting, friends!