Careful handling of your prints is essential to ensure their optimum presentation and avoid costly reprints (at full price). If they’re to be framed/mounted it’s best to take them directly to your framer. Time for the prints to cure is also highly recommended (allow for this instead of submitting your print job at the last minute). When collecting your prints bring an appropriately sized portfolio case to transport them safely.

A sheet with the following guidelines is normally included with your prints:

• If your prints have been interleaved with acid-free tissue this should be retained at all times for transport and storage until they can be mounted and/or framed.
• Handle prints with two hands to avoid creases.
• Never touch or brush the surface of the print as it is vulnerable to scratches and/or scuffing. Contact with your skin can also leave oils which will mar the image.
• If desired, you can spray your prints lightly with a fixative such as Hahnemühle Protective Spray or PremierArt Print Shield. Ask for these by name at art supplies stores. Such sprays can provide an increase in lightfastness and scuff resistance.
• If printed on roll media, the paper may have a residual curl. The best way to flatten the prints is to lay them on a flat surface under their own or moderate weight and allow for changes in humidity to flatten them naturally.
• While your prints are dry straight from the printer, they will continue to cure over time (a week or more) to achieve their maximum density and surface hardness. Humectants will also be released, which can fog the inside glass surface when framed immediately (mainly an issue with resin-coated papers).
• For optimal display life, your prints should be framed behind glass or acrylic and never displayed in direct sunlight. Framing will protect them from UV and provide a seal against airborne pollutants. Unprotected short term display for exhibition purposes is fine though.