Pastel painting with mat (or mount or passe-partout) “Helina” Keiu Kuresaar, 2014
Until it is framed behind glass pastel artwork is quite delicate, in fact, if it is rubbed or has anything scraped across it´s pigment will be lost and the picture could be spoiled.
Pastels need to be framed under glass, usually with a mount (mat, passe-partout) which keeps the surface of the artwork separated from the glass.
Care must be taken when framing not to mishandle the artwork in the framing process as this could dislodge tiny amounts of pastel dust which may show on the mount or glass.
Framing is also possible without a mount, either against the glass or with spacers. Consult a professional framer who is used to framing pastels about the possibilities.
I do not use fixative on my pastels as it dulls the colour and flattens the texture. If you or your framer choose to spray the pastel with fixative you must accept responsibility for any resulting loss of colour or texture. When a pastel is finished I lightly tap the back of the paper to dislodge any loose dust. Once hanging in it’s frame there should be no fall off of dust unless the picture is dropped or otherwise mishandled.
When hanging the picture avoid direct sunlight and large fluctuations in temperature, eg, on a wall above any type of fire or radiator.
Pastel pigment is long lasting pure colour and, properly protected, will retain it’s colour and freshness for centuries. Unless hung in bright sunlight it should not fade like watercolour and the glass protection prevents the painting dulling over the years as oil paintings tend to.
I hope you will enjoy your pastel artwork for many years to come!