<ol>
<li><p>Fixative spray will prevent most smudging. Use a permanent fixative for a finished work that you don't intend to rework at all. For an unfinished work, you can prevent smudging earlier layers by using a workable fixative. Always test on a small area first.</p></li>
<li><p>Hairspray is an easy, cheaper fixative alternative. This option is good for students and hobbyists, but is not archival quality and may affect an artwork negatively over time.</p></li>
<li><p>Archival art/photo sleeves are good for preventing smudging as a result of rubbing against other artwork in storage or during handling. They are flat, clear bags that come in many sizes and have a resealable flap to keep artwork from sliding out. </p></li>
<li><p>Framing artwork behind glass will protect it from smudging even if you do not use any kind of fixative.</p></li>
</ol>

CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-01-08T20:40:27.373Z
2019-01-08T20:40:27.373Z
A. Staffelbach
<p>you can purchase a finishing spray from most craft/art stores that will prevent the surface from becoming smudged. You may find them under fixative spray if you google it. I also find it useful as you can continue to draw on top of the surface after spraying.</p>

CC BY-SA 4.0
2019-01-08T17:32:29.397Z
2019-01-08T17:32:29.397Z
Ryan Schubert
<p>I swear, I have been drawing for years yet i still cant figure this one out. How exactly do i stop my finished pencil picture from smudging? I would appreciate anyone's help or ideas to the situation. </p>

<drawing><portrait-drawing>
How do I stop my finished pencil picture from smudging?
Kenz H.
# How do I stop my finished pencil picture from smudging?

(Asked by: username_0 on 2019-01-07)

I swear, I have been drawing for years yet i still cant figure this one out. How exactly do i stop my finished pencil picture from smudging? I would appreciate anyone's help or ideas to the situation.

**Tags:** drawing, portrait-drawing


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## 2 answers

### Answer by username_1 on 2019-01-08. Score: 1

1. Fixative spray will prevent most smudging. Use a permanent fixative for a finished work that you don't intend to rework at all. For an unfinished work, you can prevent smudging earlier layers by using a workable fixative. Always test on a small area first.
2. Hairspray is an easy, cheaper fixative alternative. This option is good for students and hobbyists, but is not archival quality and may affect an artwork negatively over time.
3. Archival art/photo sleeves are good for preventing smudging as a result of rubbing against other artwork in storage or during handling. They are flat, clear bags that come in many sizes and have a resealable flap to keep artwork from sliding out.
4. Framing artwork behind glass will protect it from smudging even if you do not use any kind of fixative.


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### Answer by username_2 on 2019-01-08. Score: 0

you can purchase a finishing spray from most craft/art stores that will prevent the surface from becoming smudged. You may find them under fixative spray if you google it. I also find it useful as you can continue to draw on top of the surface after spraying.


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