Preserving Charcoal Drawings: A Guide
Creating beautiful works of art with charcoal is an exciting process. Charcoal is a great medium for artistic expression, as it is easy to control, cost-effective and can create bold, dramatic pieces. However, charcoal isn’t the most permanent of mediums, and so it is important to take steps to properly preserve your charcoal drawings. Here is a detailed guide on how to seal charcoal drawings, so that their beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
What You Need
Before you begin, you will need to collect the supplies you need to seal your charcoal drawing. The main supplies you will need are:
- A soft paintbrush
- A can of spray fixative
- A clean cloth
- An old newspaper
Preparing to Seal
Before you begin sealing your charcoal drawing, it is important to prepare the space. You will need a well-ventilated area to work in, as the spray fixative can be hazardous if inhaled. Make sure to open windows and doors, and avoid using a fan, as it could blow the spray away from the drawing. Place a sheet of old newspaper on the floor or table where you will be working, to catch any stray drops of fixative.
Also, make sure your charcoal drawing is flat and secure. You can use a heavy book to hold the paper in place and to keep it from shifting during the sealing process. You will also want to make sure that your charcoal drawing is completely dry before applying any fixative.
Using the Spray Fixative
Once your charcoal drawing is secure and dry and you have prepared your workspace, you can begin to apply the fixative. Before beginning, make sure to shake the can of fixative for at least a minute. Hold the can of fixative at least 12 inches away from the charcoal drawing, and spray with a steady, even motion. You can do a few light coats, rather than one thick coat, to ensure that the fixative is evenly applied. Take care not to get too close, as the fixative can dissolve the charcoal.
Also, make sure to cover the entire charcoal drawing with the fixative. After you have sprayed the first coat, wait for it to dry. You can check whether the fixative is dry by lightly touching it with the tip of your finger. Once the first coat is dry, you can add a second coat of fixative. You will likely need two to three coats of fixative to properly seal the charcoal drawing.
Cleaning Up
Once you have finished applying the fixative, you will need to clean up the area. Make sure to clean the area with a damp cloth, to remove any residue from the fixative. You can also use an old newspaper to clean up any stray drops of fixative. After you have finished, you can set the charcoal drawing aside to dry completely.
It is important to note that you should only seal your charcoal drawing outdoors, or in a well-ventilated area. The fumes from the fixative can be harmful if inhaled, so it is best to work outdoors or in an open space. Also, make sure to keep the room well ventilated, even after you have finished using the fixative.
Final Thoughts
Preserving charcoal drawings is an important step in the art-making process. Taking the time to properly seal your charcoal drawings will ensure that they will last for years to come. Following these steps will help you to properly seal your charcoal drawings, so that their beauty can be admired for years to come.
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