[Betina]

Hi, guys! I need some help. The sides of some of my sketchbook sheets are turning yellow for no reason. I finished the drawings on them a year ago and back then there was no sign of yellowing. I conserve all of my drawings in punched pockets and keep them away from direct sunlight. Does anyone have any idea why is this happening and how to prevent it?

 

[Suhail]

The majority of paper is created from wood, which mostly consists of cellulose and lignin, a natural wood substance. Both cellulose and lignin oxidise to yellow and brown when exposed to light and air. Higher-grade paper is chemically treated to reduce most of the lignin and also bleached.

It is recommended to store paper away from direct sunlight and humidity. Using plastic covers can help but from time to time allow air circulation. This way would protect paper but it wouldn’t totally prevent paper from turning yellow eventually.