Framing Your Pastel Painting: Why It Matters

One of the questions I’m asked most often is, “How should I frame a pastel painting?”

Pastel is a wonderfully expressive medium, loved for its rich colour, softness, and beautiful luminosity. It’s also quite different from oil or acrylic paint. Unlike other paints that dry to form a protective layer, soft pastel remains on the surface of the paper, and that’s exactly what gives it its incredible vibrancy.

For this reason, all of my pastel paintings are left unfixed.

People are often surprised to learn that I don’t spray my finished paintings with a fixative. While fixatives are available, they inevitably dull the colours and soften the beautiful velvety quality that makes pastel so special. I want you to experience my paintings exactly as I created them—with all of their richness, light, and subtle colour.

Because the pastel remains on the surface, every unfixed pastel painting should be framed under glass to protect it from dust, moisture, and accidental touching.

Choosing the Right Glass

If you’re having one of my paintings framed, I always recommend using glass that is anti reflective and provides UV protection.

Although it costs a little more than standard glass, the difference is remarkable. You see the artwork without distracting reflections. It also provides excellent UV protection, helping preserve the colours for many years to come.

Many people comment that anti reflective glass almost seems invisible, allowing the painting to shine without the barrier of noticeable glare.

If you are purchasing a framed painting from me, I will always use this glass.

Why Professional Framing Is Important

Pastel paintings should always be framed by a professional framer who understands the unique requirements of the medium.

One of the most important features is a spacer between the artwork and the glass. This creates a small gap so the pastel surface never comes into contact with the glass. It also provides a hidden space where any tiny particles of loose pastel dust can settle naturally over time.

A small amount of pastel dust is completely normal and is simply part of the nature of working with this beautiful medium.

Mat Board or No Mat Board?

One of the lovely things about pastel is that it can be framed in a variety of styles.

Some collectors love the timeless elegance of a mat board, while others prefer a more contemporary look without one. Either option works beautifully, as long as the artwork is separated from the glass with an appropriate spacer.

A Painting to Enjoy for Generations

When professionally framed, a pastel painting is incredibly durable and can be enjoyed for generations. With anti reflective glass, careful framing, and a little common sense—such as avoiding prolonged direct sunlight—your artwork will continue to bring beauty and joy to your home for many years.

If you ever have questions about framing one of my paintings, I’m always happy to help. I want every artwork to look its very best and to be enjoyed for a lifetime.