Before discussing how to get a pastel ready for picture framing, we should explain what these are.  Pastels and charcoals are drawn or painted with short sticks or chalks which are friable media. Friable means a powdery or crumbly and otherwise loose and unstable medium. In fact, if you happen to accidentally touch a pastel or charcoal, chances are that you will smudge it and that some of the medium will come off and stick to your hand. Therefore it is important to safeguard the artwork from accidental touching, smudging, other contact or pressure damage. If needing to temporarily store or transport ...