How to Pack Different Types of Artwork: A Step-by-Step Guide
Packing artwork properly is essential to preserve its condition during transit. Each type of medium—whether oil, acrylic, watercolor, or more—has unique characteristics and requires specific packing methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide to packing various types of artwork based on their media.
Oil Paintings
Why It’s Unique:
Oil paintings are more delicate due to their thick layers and longer drying time, which makes them prone to cracking and sticking.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide:
Wrap with Glassine Paper: Start by covering the surface with acid-free glassine paper. It provides a smooth layer that won’t stick to the paint.
Add Foam Spacers: Place foam corners on each side of the frame to prevent pressure on the painted surface.
Layer Bubble Wrap: Wrap the artwork with bubble wrap, keeping the bubbles facing outward to avoid any impressions on the surface.
Double-Wall Cardboard Protection: Sandwich the artwork between two sheets of double-wall cardboard for added stability.
Use a Sturdy Outer Box: Place the secured painting into a reinforced box, filling any gaps with packing peanuts or foam to prevent movement.
Pro Tip: Avoid direct plastic contact on the paint surface, as it may cause damage over time due to trapped moisture or temperature fluctuations.
“Pro Tip: Avoid direct plastic contact on the paint surface, as it may cause damage over time due to trapped moisture or temperature fluctuations.”
Acrylic Paintings
Why It’s Unique:
Acrylic paintings are more flexible and generally more durable than oils but can still be scratched or damaged if not packed carefully.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide:
Cover with Glassine or Wax Paper: Similar to oils, use a protective layer of glassine or wax paper on the painted surface.
Wrap in Bubble Wrap: Wrap with bubble wrap (bubbles facing outward) to protect against bumps and scratches.
Cardboard Corners: Add cardboard corner protectors for an extra layer of stability, especially if the frame is delicate.
Double-Layer Protection: Place the artwork between two cardboard sheets or foam boards.
Secure in a Strong Box: Use a well-padded box, filling any remaining space with packing material to prevent shifting.
Pro Tip: Avoid stacking anything directly on acrylic paintings, as the paint surface can still be sensitive to pressure.
“Pro Tip: Avoid stacking anything directly on acrylic paintings, as the paint surface can still be sensitive to pressure.”
Works on Paper (e.g., Prints, Drawings)
Why It’s Unique:
Paper is highly sensitive to environmental changes, and even minor bumps can leave dents or wrinkles.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide:
Place in a Plastic Sleeve: For unframed works, place the artwork in a clear, acid-free plastic sleeve to protect against moisture and handling.
Use Acid-Free Backing Board: Position the artwork against an acid-free backing board for added stability.
Add a Glassine Layer: For extra protection, place a sheet of glassine over the front of the artwork.
Create a “Sandwich”: Place the backed artwork between two pieces of cardboard or foam board.
Wrap in Bubble Wrap: Wrap the entire sandwich in bubble wrap for cushioning.
Place in a Rigid Envelope or Box: Use a rigid envelope or flat box, with extra padding if needed, to keep the artwork from bending.
Pro Tip: Avoid tape or adhesives directly on the artwork, as they can cause damage when removed.
“Pro Tip: Avoid tape or adhesives directly on the artwork, as they can cause damage when removed.”
Watercolours
Why It’s Unique:
Watercolours are particularly delicate, as the pigment can be affected by humidity and smudging if not handled carefully.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide:
Cover with Glassine Paper: Use a layer of glassine to protect the painted surface from smudges.
Add an Acid-Free Backing Board: Place the watercolour against a sturdy, acid-free backing board to prevent bending.
Wrap in Clear Plastic: Seal the watercolour in a clear, acid-free plastic sleeve to protect against moisture.
Add Bubble Wrap Protection: Wrap the artwork in bubble wrap, with bubbles facing out to cushion it.
Use a Flat, Rigid Box or Envelope: Place in a flat box or rigid envelope, adding extra cardboard layers if needed to prevent bending.
Pro Tip: Watercolors are vulnerable to both humidity and light, so try to transport them in a climate-controlled environment whenever possible.
“Pro Tip: Watercolors are vulnerable to both humidity and light, so try to transport them in a climate-controlled environment whenever possible.”
Paintings on Linen or Canvas
Why It’s Unique:
Linen and canvas artworks, especially if unframed, are vulnerable to stretching and tearing.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide:
Wrap in Glassine or Acid-Free Paper: Protect the front with glassine paper to avoid smudges or scratches.
Add Foam or Cardboard Corners: Use corner protectors to keep the edges safe, especially if the canvas is stretched on a frame.
Wrap in Bubble Wrap: Wrap the artwork carefully, keeping the bubbles facing outward.
Sandwich Between Cardboard Sheets: For extra protection, place it between two sheets of cardboard or foam boards.
Box It Up with Padding: Secure it in a padded box, ensuring it doesn’t shift during transport.
Pro Tip: Avoid stacking other items on canvas pieces, as the pressure can leave impressions or cause sagging.
“Pro Tip: Avoid stacking other items on canvas pieces, as the pressure can leave impressions or cause sagging.”
Wooden Panel Paintings
Why It’s Unique:
Wood panels are sturdier but are vulnerable to cracking and warping, especially with changes in temperature and humidity.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide:
Cover with Glassine Paper: Protect the painted surface with glassine paper, particularly if it has any textured paint.
Wrap in Bubble Wrap: Wrap the panel in bubble wrap, using extra layers if it’s a heavy piece.
Place in a Foam-Lined Box: Use a foam-lined box or add foam layers to prevent any impact damage.
Fill Gaps with Packing Material: Ensure there’s no room for movement within the box by filling any gaps with packing peanuts or crumpled paper.
Pro Tip: Keep wood panels in a climate-controlled environment to prevent warping.
“Pro Tip: Keep wood panels in a climate-controlled environment to prevent warping.”
Each type of artwork has unique requirements to ensure safe transportation. By following these packing steps, you can protect different media from common risks like scratches, moisture, and warping. Remember, the right packing materials and methods are essential to preserving each piece’s beauty and integrity.
