Taking care of your pastel paintings Even though it has been thoroughly sprayed with a premium fixative, the pastel painting is still fragile: If you transport the painting, don’t bump it around. Wrap the whole framed painting in bubble wrap, cloth, large towel or at least heavy paper. It should be standing upright or lying on its back. When hanging the painting, keep it away from direct sunlight which can fade the colors. If you reframe the painting: The new mat should have spacers between it and the painting. Any loose pastel falls down behind the mat. For protection against fading, use UV protective glass. Enjoy your new painting!