Is it OK to wipe original art with alcohol?
In a word, no. There are ways...but leave it to the experts to do that.
Alcohol and paint are not friends and do not play nicely together.
Alcohol will remove paint and even some protective coatings.
So, if you order an original, open the box...how do you ensure that the artwork is effectively "safe" to handle?
STEPS TO DISINFECT YOUR NEW ART:
First, leave your box outside. Spray it with alcohol.
Open the box and remove the artwork and wrapping. (You can spray the wrapping.)
Take a damp sponge, not soaking wet, with gentle soap and water and give the painting a once over. Do not scrub. Gently wipe it down.
Let it dry thoroughly; in direct sunlight, for a short time (~2 hours). Take care not to store it in extreme heat or cold. Just let it “bake” for a short time in some direct light (cool and dry).
Hang with confidence!
My tips are for most art; especially acrylics.
If you must wipe down your artwork, follow the directions below.
How to wipe art paintings with alcohol (not recommended, but carefully follow these directions if you must)
You can use alcohol on art, but please follow very specific instructions:
Do not use straight alcohol! Be sure it is mixed with water : 3/4 water - 1/4 alcohol
You can use this on a damp (not wet) sponge. Give fully-cured art a wipe and then wipe again with just plain water. Let dry thoroughly.
Do not scrub - wipe over art gently.
Do not allow any water or alcohol drops onto the artwork. This will ruin the artwork.
Be very careful to only use the slightest of the mixture and/or water.
When in doubt, do not wipe art. Consult the artist for their recommendation.
What is fully-cured art?Simply, this is art that has been dried for at least a couple of weeks (acrylics) and for a full cure in oil (months).
Can you wipe watercolor art?
No, wiping any watercolors will possibly smear and ruin (by breaking down) the watercolor paint. No matter how long it has dried, it can still ruin the artwork.
To “disinfect” art paintings of any type, sunlight can help! Be sure you do not leave art in direct sunlight for more than an hour or so.
Never leave oils in heat or direct sunlight. They can melt.
Again, when in doubt, contact the artist and get their recommendation. The artist will know how long the art has cured, how it was varnished/protected and if a quick wipe-down will harm the painting.