Oil paintings need to be cleaned occasionally to remove built-up dust.
Grime and dust tend to build up on oil paintings, which causes them to look faded even though they are simply dirty. You can restore an oil painting to its original beauty by washing it. The process is very precise and requires a gentle hand, so never practice on an expensive painting or one with sentimental value.
Instructions
1. Place a piece of linoleum cutout under the painting with a piece of craft paper between the cutout and the painting. The craft paper will absorb the cleaning liquid, and the cutout will prevent you from stretching the canvas. Always wear surgical gloves when cleaning an oil painting.
2. Apply the cleaner to a cotton ball and gently wipe it over the painting. Work in small areas of the painting.
3. Roll a cotton swab over the area where the cleaner has been applied and observe the dirt being removed. Replace with a new cotton swab once all sides of the one you are using are dirty.
4. Spray the cleaned area with a neutralizing agent to stop the cleaning action.
5. Spray the cleaned painting with oil painting varnish to protect the painting and bring out the colors.
