Humidity is a problem for any type of paper-based art or even artwork printed on canvas. The trouble is, without art on your kitchen or bathroom walls, you have relatively few options for décor leaving you with bare-looking walls.
There are solutions, and not all of them require you to opt for moisture-resistant art installations, like ceramic plates, lining shelves with gemstones, using old iron signs as a wall hanging, or any other vintage signs.
There are plenty of moisture-resistant materials that can be used for home décor. Rarely are they as easy to personalise your space with though. The simplest for personalisation is the tried and trusted method of printing and framing.
Below are a few ideas for wall décor in bathrooms and kitchens (without destroying your prints)
- Use metal prints
Just like you can come to us to have any of your photos printed and framed using high quality long-lasting inks on superior paper, other printers use dye-sublimation to print directly on aluminium.
For frames that you intend to hang in a bathroom or kitchen, aluminium frames are the way to go. They will not warp as wood would. And they certainly will not be hindered by mould and mildew.
Metal prints can be displayed with or without the frame. It is similar to canvas prints, in that framing is a personal choice. If you feel it looks unfinished without a frame, then frame it. If it looks terrific right out of the box, display it as it is without the frame.
If you do opt for metal prints, be sure to check your printer is using dye-sublimation to print to metal and not using metallic photo paper. That is just normal photo paper with a metal effect. Those will encounter the same moisture problem as any other type of paper.
- Frame copies of photos or artwork
Take a leaf from museums and keep your originals archived, properly stored, and display a framed replica. Kitchens and bathrooms are high risk areas because of the high humidity. The more water content there is in the surrounding air, the more likely it will be that the print can become damaged. Only aluminium frames will withstand high moisture, but it will not lock it out of the frame completely. The contents inside the frame can be subjected to environmental stressors.
Invest in a quality metal photo frame, then the only ongoing cost is the printing cost for copies of the original digital copy.
- Seal the frame
The standard practice for picture framing is to seal the backing board. It can be done with gummed tape (acid-free), or by adding a dust sheet. When you know that you need maximum protection, use both.
Seal the backing board with acid-free tape to cover any potential gaps, then attach a dust cover too. Dust covers for picture frames ought to be strong. Kraft paper (not craft) is a popular option because it is a natural brown colour and is not as extensively processed with chemicals resulting in a longer-lasting backing cover. It is still paper though so will become frailer with age. Expect to replace on occasion.
The advantage of sealing is not only to lower the risk of moisture seeping into the frame, but it also prevents humidity-seeking insects like thrips and aphids from penetrating into the frame.
In addition to sealing the frame, there are spray-on water repellants that can be used to prevent water from pooling or standing on the back cover. They will not make your frame water resistant, but they can extend the longevity of your backing cover.