Once you’ve completed a drawing, follow these steps to protect it for many years to come.
A mat and frame will finish and protect your drawing and enhance its appearance. An acid-free mat is preferable to protect the drawing from yellowing where the mat board and drawing come in contact. A sheet of glass at the front along with backing board and craft paper on the back will sandwich the drawing and mat board inside the frame, keeping your drawing protected from the elements.
You can spray fixative over the surface of a drawing to help the medium adhere to the paper’s surface and prevent it from smearing. Once it is coated in fixative, the drawing cannot be erased.
Though fixative can be used on graphite drawings, it isn’t necessary. Fixative is most useful with soft mediums such as charcoal and pastels, which are more prone to smearing and having a dust powder that can fall off.
If you choose to spray fixative over the surface of your drawing, be sure to follow the instructions on the can. Apply fixative only in a well-ventilated space.
Presenting your art with a proper frame can make a good drawing look great as well as protect it for future enjoyment.