Essential Fine Art Packing Supplies:
- Glassine Paper:
- A smooth, acid-free, water- and grease-resistant paper used to wrap paintings, prints, and works on paper.
- It protects the surface of the artwork from scratches, dust, and moisture.
- Acid-Free Tissue Paper:
- Similar to glassine but thinner and softer.
- It is typically used to layer between delicate surfaces like photographs or works on paper.
- Bubble Wrap:
- Use large-bubble bubble wrap for cushioning around the artwork, especially for sculptures or framed pieces.
- Never place bubble wrap directly on the artwork; always wrap it first in glassine or acid-free paper.
- Corner Protectors:
- Foam or cardboard protectors that safeguard the corners of framed artwork.
- These protect against impact damage during shipping or handling.
- Foam Sheets:
- Use sheets of polyethylene or polyurethane foam to cushion and protect the artwork within a crate or box.
- Ideal for sculptures or oddly shaped works.
- Packing Tape:
- High-quality, heavy-duty tape to seal packages securely.
- Avoid using cheap tapes that may not hold up during transit.
- Cardboard Sheets:
- Corrugated cardboard sheets or flat panels for reinforcing and protecting delicate pieces within boxes.
- Place between layers of artwork or around the edges for added structure.
- Crates (Wooden or Cardboard):
- For high-value or fragile works, consider custom-built wooden crates.
- Use double-walled cardboard boxes for less delicate works or pieces that don’t require custom crating.
- Stretch Wrap or Plastic Wrap:
- Useful for securing bubble-wrapped sculptures or larger items.
- Helps keep packing material tightly around the artwork.
- Silica Gel Packs:
- These help absorb moisture inside the packing to prevent damage from humidity, especially in transit or storage.
- Custom Foam Inserts:
- For irregular or fragile pieces, custom-cut foam inserts provide extra protection and a snug fit inside crates.
- Tyvek Wrap:
- A breathable, durable wrap often used in place of plastic. It protects against water but allows airflow, reducing the risk of moisture damage.
Packing Best Practices:
- Layering: Always wrap artwork in glassine or acid-free tissue before using bubble wrap to avoid surface damage.
- Padding: Make sure there’s at least 2 inches of padding (bubble wrap, foam, or cardboard) between the artwork and the outer walls of the box or crate.
- Double-Boxing: For extra security, place the artwork in one box and then place that box inside a larger box with additional padding.
