Proper storage of watercolor paints
Watercolor paints are a cherished possession for many artists, and proper storage is crucial to maintain their quality and lifespan. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, storing your watercolor paints correctly will ensure they remain in good condition and ready to use when creativity strikes. In this article, we will discuss the best practices for storing watercolor paints.
Keep paints in a cool and dry environment
The first step in ensuring the longevity of your watercolor paints is to store them in a cool and dry environment. Exposure to heat and humidity can cause the paints to dry out or become moldy, diminishing their quality. Avoid storing your paints in places like attics, basements, or near sources of heat such as radiators or direct sunlight.
An ideal location for storing watercolor paints would be a temperature-controlled room or a dedicated art supply cabinet. If you live in a particularly humid area, you might consider investing in a dehumidifier to maintain an optimal environment for your paints.
Use airtight containers
Watercolor paints are sensitive to air exposure, which can cause them to dry out or form a hardened layer on top. To prevent this, it is essential to store the paints in airtight containers.
You can transfer your watercolor paints from their original packaging to small, airtight containers such as empty pans or plastic film containers. Make sure the container has a tight seal to keep out air and moisture. Label the containers with the color name or number for easy identification.
Organize paints by color family
Organizing your watercolor paints by color family helps not just in storage but also in finding the colors you need quickly. When you have a large collection of paints, it can be time-consuming to search for the specific color you want.
Arrange your paints by warm and cool colors or similar shades. You can use palette boxes with separate compartments or small plastic trays to keep the colors organized. This way, you can easily locate the desired color without rummaging through a jumbled mess.
Regularly check for mold or contamination
Watercolor paints are vulnerable to mold and other forms of contamination if not stored properly. Regularly inspect your paints for any signs of mold growth or discoloration. If you notice any mold, discard the affected paint immediately to prevent it from spreading to other colors.
To minimize the risk of contamination, avoid dipping a dirty brush directly into the paint pans. Instead, squeeze a small amount of paint onto a palette and use that as your working palette. This way, you can keep the original paint pans clean and free from any external contaminants.
Store paints horizontally
Another useful tip for storing watercolor paints is to keep them horizontally rather than vertically. Storing them flat ensures the pigment remains evenly distributed within the pan, preventing any separation or settling that may occur over time.
Invest in a storage container specifically designed for watercolor paints, with individual slots to hold the pans horizontally. This will not only keep the paints in optimal condition but also make it easier to transport them if needed.
In conclusion, proper storage of watercolor paints involves keeping them in a cool and dry environment, using airtight containers, organizing them by color family, regularly checking for mold or contamination, and storing them horizontally. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy vibrant, high-quality paints for years to come.
