Storing Oil Paintings

[Wendy Booth]

I am new to oil painting and I'm wondering what is the best way to store painting, both in progress and completed works. Is it OK to store a lot together in a cupboard? Or will all the fumes be dangerous? I don't really want to store my paintings in the garage because spiders are bound to come to a sticky ending on there!

Also, how do you avoid combustion of linseed oil? I've heard of people's rags catching fire in the bin, or paintings catching fire. Is there a way of avoiding this?

[agarwaen]

It is important for oil paintings to get light. You shouldn't put them in to the garage or in another dark place.

To avoid that rags catch fire, don't let them get to hot I would say. None of my rags ever catched fire yet.

[paintfool]

Hi Wendy, as oil paintings stay wet in the underlayers of paint for a very long time it's important to have good air circulation. One of the things that i rely on is my plastic covered wire shelving. I have it hanging high in my studio (above the windows) and lining three walls. I set the paintings on them and after a few months it's safe to allow them to touch a bit on the upper edges as i place one in front of the other. I still get the air circulation that way. The shelving is relativley inexpensive, easy to install and because it's wire, it's lightweight enough. I will be posting a copy of this thread to the studio tips forum so be sure to check there for answers as well.
Cheryl

[Wendy Booth]

Thanks Paintfool. I will certainly have to find somewhere to store my pics that gives them plenty of light. But, I'm a bit confused about the shelving. Is this something you can buy? Do you have a picture?

[paintfool]

Yes, Wendy. You can buy it at any hardware store and most department stores as well. It's made by 'Closet Maid'. If i'm not mistaken, Rubbermaid may make it as well. It's wire covered with a plastic coating. Very common in closets. I will post a pic for you when i get home from work.
Cheryl

[gargoil]

Hi,

I've not come across this wire shelving. I'd like to see a pic of it too please, Paintfool. Cheers,

Gargoil
:)