Quick answer
To display risograph prints without damage, use acid-free framing materials, avoid direct sunlight and humidity, and handle prints by the edges with clean hands or cotton gloves.
Why risograph prints need special care
Risograph prints use soy-based inks that can smudge or fade more easily than standard digital prints. The recycled paper often used, like the 170gsm coffee cup paper in the Polly Pocket A4 Risograph Print, is porous and can absorb moisture or oils from your hands. That means standard framing and storage advice may not be enough—you need to take a few extra steps to keep the artwork looking its best.
The trade-off between UV protection and visual clarity
UV-protective glass or acrylic can slow fading, but it often adds a slight tint or glare. For a small A4 print, museum-grade acrylic is lighter and offers excellent UV protection without the greenish cast of some standard UV glass. If you prefer the clearest view, opt for anti-reflective glass, but know that it may not block as much UV. Choose based on whether your wall gets direct sunlight.
How to display risograph prints without damage
- Handle the print carefully: Wash and dry your hands thoroughly, or wear cotton gloves. Hold the print by the edges only. Oils and dirt from fingers can stain the porous paper permanently. Even a single fingerprint can be difficult to remove from recycled paper, so always handle with care.
- Choose the right frame and mat: Use a frame with an acid-free mat or a spacer that keeps the print away from the glass. For an A4 print like the Polly Pocket Risograph Print, a standard A4 frame works, but ensure the mat is archival quality to prevent yellowing. A common mistake is letting the print touch the glass, which can cause ink transfer or moisture damage over time.
- Protect from light and humidity: Hang the frame away from direct sunlight and avoid bathrooms or kitchens where humidity fluctuates. If your room gets strong light, consider UV-protective glass or acrylic. Rotate displayed prints every few months if possible, especially in bright rooms, to even out any fading.
- Store extras flat and cool: If you have multiple risograph prints, store them flat in a portfolio box or between sheets of acid-free tissue paper. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. Never roll risograph prints tightly; the ink can crack or the paper can crease.
Product spotlight
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Polly Pocket A4 Risograph Print: Printed on 170gsm recycled coffee cup paper for a textured, sustainable feel. The porous paper absorbs moisture easily, so you must use acid-free mats and avoid touching the print surface.
Polly Pocket A4 Risograph Print
