Art Workshops Update
After careful consideration, I have decided to discontinue my in-person art workshops. Over time, maintaining sufficient attendance has become increasingly challenging, leading to several session cancellations. Additionally, the logistics of travelling for these workshops have become more demanding, particularly as I do not have access to a car and must undertake a six-hour journey to Chesterfield, where my family resides. Although I store some materials at my father’s home, the necessity of transporting a substantial amount of equipment has added to the challenges.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who has participated in my workshops since their inception in 2011. It has truly been a joy to meet so many wonderful people, and I hope you have found them valuable and learned so much during our sessions. While many of you joined to learn, I have also greatly benefited from the experiences you have shared with me. Your support has played a crucial role in the growth of my art business, and I look forward to the exciting new ventures ahead. I hope you will join me on this journey. Best Wishes Karen M Berisford 
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If you are an artist who cares about the longevity and preservation of your work, you might have heard of the terms “acid-free” and “archival” when it comes to paper quality. But what do they mean, and how do they affect your art? Let's take a look.  Acid-free paper is paper that has a neutral or alkaline pH, meaning it does not contain any acids that could cause deterioration or discoloration over time. Acid-free paper is more resistant to yellowing and fading, and it is better for the environment. Archival paper is paper that meets certain standards of permanence and durability, in addition to being acid-free. Archival paper should also contain no groundwood or unbleached pulp, meet strict limits on metallic content, and be free from optical brighteners, which artificially make the sheet whiter. Archival paper is often made with 100% cotton, which is considered to be the most stable and pure cellulose fiber. Acid-free paper is not necessarily archival, and archival paper is not necessarily acid-free. For example, an acid paper with buffers added could still deteriorate or yellow if the acid remaining in the sheet or formed during aging exceeds the buffering capacity. Conversely, an alkaline paper without any buffers could become acidic over time due to environmental factors.
Most papers that have archival properties were originally designed for use in printing. However, certain papers, like Stonehenge, have gained popularity among coloured pencil artists due to their archival qualities. Archival papers are known for their lightfastness, which is typically assessed using the "Blue Wool" scale. This means that these papers do not fade over time or experience significant fading compared to non-lightfast papers. Conversely, non-archival papers like the Ursus line, are acid-free and can still be protected in various ways. If you intend to frame your artwork, it is advisable to use UV-protected or museum-quality glass as a means of safeguarding the artwork. Although this option may be more expensive, it provides the assurance of long-term protection. Did you know? If you cover the entire surface using lightfast products, the underlying material is protected from direct exposure to light. Lightfast products are designed to resist degradation when exposed to light, significantly reducing the rate of fading. However, it’s important to note that no product can completely eliminate fading, especially under intense or prolonged exposure to light. Regular maintenance and care are still necessary to preserve the appearance and quality of the surface. Advice for caring for your archival and acid free paper
The term “archival” is not regulated or standardised, and different manufacturers and archivists may have different definitions and criteria for what makes a paper archival. Therefore, it is important to check the specifications and certifications of the paper before buying it, and to look for reputable brands and sources.
What’s your favourite type of paper for your art? Do you go for acid-free, archival, or a mix of both? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! |
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All images on this website are copyright of Karen M Berisford unless otherwise stated - Website design by Karen M Berisford. All rights Reserved.