“Is this paper archival?”
It’s one of the most common questions we’re asked — and it’s a good one. But the truth is, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
While some fine art papers are marketed as “archival,” the longevity of a print depends on much more than just the paper it’s printed on. In this post, we’ll break down what “archival” really means — and what actually determines whether your print will last a few years… or a few generations.
Understanding the Term “Archival” with regards to paper prints:
In simple terms, “archival” refers to materials that are designed to resist deterioration over time. Museums, galleries, and libraries rely on archival materials to preserve artwork and documents for decades — sometimes centuries.
In the world of fine art printing, the term has become somewhat of a marketing shorthand. While many papers are labeled “archival” because they meet certain material standards (like being acid-free or made from cotton), those designations don’t guarantee a long-lasting print on their own.
True archival quality depends on the full system — paper, ink, handling, framing, and environment.
Paper Quality: The Foundation, But Not the Full Picture:
Let’s start with the paper itself.
Professional-grade archival papers are typically:
- Made from 100% cotton rag or purified alpha cellulose
- Acid-free and lignin-free
- Buffered to maintain a stable, neutral pH
These qualities help prevent yellowing and brittleness over time. However, some papers contain optical brightening agents (OBAs) — chemicals used to create a bright white surface. OBAs can break down with exposure to light, potentially causing discoloration or fading over time.
Pro tip: If print longevity is a top concern, look for OBA-free papers and ask for the paper’s specifications.
The Role of Ink: Pigment-Based Longevity:
Archival paper is only as effective as the ink printed on it.
We exclusively use pigment-based inks for all our fine art printing. These inks offer exceptional stability, strong resistance to UV light, and excellent archival performance when used with compatible media.
When paired with the right paper, pigment inks provide a robust, long-lasting image that can endure for generations under the right conditions.
Handling and Storage: The Hidden Factors:
Proper handling and storage play a critical — and often overlooked — role in a print’s longevity.
Tips for preserving unframed prints:
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands or cotton gloves.
- Store prints flat when possible, using acid-free folders or interleaving sheets.
- Avoid exposure to high humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and direct light.
A museum-grade print can still be damaged in days if mishandled or stored improperly.
Framing for Longevity
Framing isn’t just for aesthetics — it’s a key part of the preservation process.
Here’s what to look for in archival framing:
- UV-filtering glass or acrylic to reduce light exposure
- Acid-free backing and mats to prevent chemical damage
- Spacers or matting to keep the print from touching the glazing
- Sealed frames to protect against moisture, dust, and airborne pollutants
Even a high-quality print can degrade quickly if framed with standard materials or exposed to poor environmental conditions.
Light and Environmental Exposure:
Light — especially UV light — is one of the primary causes of fading and deterioration.
Best practices for display:
- Avoid placing prints in direct sunlight or high-lux environments
- Choose rooms with stable temperatures and humidity
- Rotate artwork periodically, especially in high-exposure areas
Even prints made with archival materials can fade if exposed to harsh lighting for extended periods.
How Long Will an Archival Print Actually Last?
The answer depends on the interplay between three key elements:
- The paper
- The ink
- The environment
When all three are aligned — archival materials, pigment inks, and proper display or storage — prints can last well over 100 years without significant degradation.
But compromise any one of these, and longevity drops significantly. For example, a print hung in direct sun, even on archival paper with pigment ink, may show signs of fading within 5 to 10 years.
Final Thoughts: Archival Is a System, Not a Label:
When clients ask if something is archival, we like to expand the conversation. Yes, the paper matters — but so does the ink. And the framing. And the lighting. And how the print is handled before and after it’s framed.
Feel free to ask us, in more detail, about any particular material you may be interested in, and we’ll give you any and all info we have, to the best of our current knowledge.
Archival quality isn’t a single product feature — it’s a commitment to best practices.
