How To Clean a Painting
- September 8, 2009
- 14,593 Views
Writer
Candace Forte
If your oil and watercolor paintings are covered in dust and dirt, learn how to clean them using common household items.
You Will Need
- A new, soft-bristle brush
- Unsliced doughy bread
Never use water or solvent to clean your paintings.
Step 1: Decide whether you can do it
Decide whether you can clean the painting yourself. If it’s extremely valuable or an antique, use a professional.
Step 2: Use a soft-bristle brush
Gently dust the painting with a soft-bristle brush.
As you’re using the brush, imagine that you’re dusting pollen from flower petals.
Step 3: Use a loaf of bread
Use the inside of the bread to remove any dirt. Break off a piece of bread and gently rub a section of the painting. When that piece is dirty, break off another piece and continue on another section.
Before you use bread on an oil painting, make sure the paint layers are firmly attached so you don’t rub off any paint.
Step 4: Brush away crumbs
Brush away any excess bread crumbs.
Step 5: Hang the picture
Hang or re-hang your painting. Take a moment to enjoy the satisfaction of having successfully restored your artwork.
In 2006, researchers determined that the model for the Mona Lisa was pregnant or had just given birth.
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Comments (3)
Who'd have thought to use bread to clean a painting? Thanks for letting us know, Paul!
over 2 years ago by HeatherM
People, beware: it works BEST if you first spread lots of butter and jam on the bread. Seriously!!!
about 1 year ago by conchita
Hello..and Thank You all very much~! Found this to be a Great place to be, for me &; Everyone..I Will now go Do..whatcha taught me here-Thanks Your New Fan Donny
8 months ago by TheDonnyGuy
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