Packing and shipping fine art requires careful planning and the right materials to ensure the artwork’s safety and preservation. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:
Materials Needed
- Acid-free tissue paper
- Glassine paper
- Bubble wrap
- Corner protectors
- Foam boards
- Cardboard sheets
- Packing tape
- Custom-built wooden crate or strong cardboard box
- Desiccant packets (to control moisture)
- Gloves (preferably cotton)
Steps for Packing Fine Art
1. Preparation
- Clean Workspace: Ensure your workspace is clean and free of any materials that could damage the artwork.
- Gloves: Always handle the artwork with clean gloves to prevent oils and dirt from transferring.
2. Wrapping the Art
- Cover with Tissue Paper: Place acid-free tissue paper over the artwork’s surface. This prevents direct contact with any packing materials that could potentially damage the piece.
- Glassine Paper: Wrap the artwork in glassine paper. This water-resistant material protects against moisture and provides an additional barrier against dust and dirt.
3. Protecting the Edges
- Corner Protectors: Place corner protectors on all corners of the artwork to shield them from impacts. Custom foam or cardboard corners work well for this purpose.
4. Bubble Wrap
- Wrap with Bubble Wrap: Wrap the artwork in several layers of bubble wrap, ensuring that the bubbles face outward. This cushioning helps absorb shocks during transit.
- Secure with Tape: Use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap. Make sure the tape does not touch the artwork directly.
5. Creating a Protective Sandwich
- Foam Boards: Sandwich the bubble-wrapped artwork between two pieces of foam board or sturdy cardboard. This adds rigidity and further protects the piece from bending or punctures.
- Tape Securely: Use packing tape to secure the foam boards or cardboard around the artwork.
6. Packing in a Box
- Choose the Right Box: Select a box slightly larger than the wrapped artwork. For extremely valuable pieces, consider a custom-built wooden crate.
- Cushioning the Box: Line the bottom of the box with a layer of bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
- Insert Artwork: Place the protected artwork into the box. Fill any empty space with additional bubble wrap or packing peanuts to prevent movement.
- Desiccant Packets: Place desiccant packets inside the box to control moisture.
7. Sealing the Box
- Close the Box: Close the box and seal it securely with packing tape. Reinforce all seams and edges with extra tape.
- Label: Clearly label the box with “Fragile” and “This Side Up” stickers. Include handling instructions and contact information for the recipient.
8. Shipping Considerations
- Choose a Reputable Carrier: Use a shipping company experienced in handling fine art. Consider using a service that specializes in art transport.
- Insurance: Purchase adequate insurance to cover the value of the artwork in case of damage or loss during transit.
- Tracking: Ensure the shipment has a tracking number and confirm delivery details with the recipient.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your fine art is packed securely and arrives safely at its destination.