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Acid-Free vs Archival: What You Need to Know About Paper Quality for Your Art

13/2/2024

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.

Cotton papers image for an article about Archival and Acid free meanings

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.

Hot pressed Archival & Acid Free papers

12 Artist-grade black papers

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

It is important to store in a cool, dry, clean, dark, and stable environment, away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and fluctuations in humidity. The ideal temperature is around 20°C, and the ideal relative humidity is about 55%.
Choosing the right storage furniture and enclosures is important when storing important documents. Use acid- and lignin-free materials and buffer them for boxes, folders, envelopes, and sleeves. Ensure that the enclosures fit the size and shape of the paper and provide adequate support and protection. Label the enclosures clearly and avoid writing directly on the paper to prevent any damage.
Keep safe from fire, water, pests, and mould. Avoid placing them near ignition sources, water pipes, or food. Use fire-resistant and water-resistant storage furniture and containers. Check for mould or insect infestation regularly.
Handle paper with care and clean hands. Avoid touching the paper's surface or using adhesive tapes, metal clips, rubber bands, or acidic inserts. Use gloves, tongs, or spatulas to lift and move the paper. When carrying or displaying paper, please support it with a rigid board or folder.
Monitor the condition of the paper and seek professional advice if needed. Look for signs of deterioration, such as discolouration, brittleness, tears, stains, or odours. Contact a qualified conservator if the paper is damaged or needs conservation treatment.

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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This Article Has Been Upgraded

This page now directs visitors to the revised article on black papers for artists. The earlier blog version has been replaced with a fully updated and comprehensive guide that concentrates on artist‑grade surfaces, providing a more accurate and useful resource for choosing materials.

If you’ve arrived here from an older link or search result, the new guide will give a much more extensive overview of the black surfaces currently available, along with practical notes on how each one behaves in the studio. You can find the updated version by clicking the image below.