How to Pack Paintings Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide
Packing paintings for moving, shipping, or storage requires careful attention to detail. Improper packing can lead to scratches, tears, dents, or even complete destruction of your valuable artwork. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, providing you with the knowledge and techniques to protect your paintings like a professional.
Why Proper Packing Matters
Paints are fragile and sensitive to environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and physical impact. A poorly packed painting is vulnerable to:
* **Physical Damage:** Bumps, drops, and abrasions during transit can cause scratches, dents, tears, and even punctures to the canvas or frame.
* **Moisture Damage:** Humidity can cause mold growth, warping of the canvas or frame, and cracking of the paint.
* **Temperature Damage:** Extreme temperatures can cause cracking, peeling, or softening of the paint.
* **Dust and Dirt:** Airborne particles can accumulate on the surface of the painting, dulling its colors and potentially damaging the surface over time.
Investing time and effort in proper packing ensures the safe arrival and preservation of your artwork.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials. Having everything on hand will streamline the packing process and minimize the risk of errors.
* **Acid-Free Glassine Paper:** This archival-quality paper is specifically designed to protect delicate surfaces like paintings. It’s smooth, non-abrasive, and prevents the paint from sticking to the packing materials.
* **Archival Tape:** Use acid-free archival tape (such as linen tape or artist’s tape) to secure the glassine paper without damaging the painting. Avoid using masking tape, duct tape, or other aggressive tapes that can leave residue or damage the artwork.
* **Bubble Wrap:** Choose bubble wrap with small bubbles for optimal cushioning. Avoid using large-bubble wrap, as it can create pressure points and potentially damage the canvas.
* **Foam Boards or Cardboard Sheets:** Sturdy foam boards or cardboard sheets provide additional protection against impact and punctures. They should be slightly larger than the painting itself.
* **Packing Tape:** Use high-quality packing tape to securely seal the box.
* **Packing Peanuts (Optional):** If using a larger box, packing peanuts can help fill any empty spaces and prevent the painting from shifting during transit. However, use them sparingly and ensure the painting is adequately protected with other materials before adding packing peanuts.
* **Gloves (Optional):** Wearing clean gloves will prevent fingerprints and smudges from getting on the painting.
* **Measuring Tape:** For measuring the dimensions of the painting and the box.
* **Marker:** For labeling the box clearly.
* **Appropriate Sized Box:** Select a box that is slightly larger than the wrapped painting, allowing room for cushioning materials on all sides.
* **Corner Protectors (Optional):** These are especially useful for framed paintings, preventing damage to the corners.
Step-by-Step Packing Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to pack your paintings safely and effectively:
**Step 1: Inspect the Painting**
Before packing, carefully inspect the painting for any existing damage, such as cracks, tears, or loose paint. Document any pre-existing damage with photographs. This will be helpful if you need to file a claim with the shipping company or insurance provider later.
**Step 2: Clean the Painting (If Necessary)**
If the painting is dusty or dirty, gently clean it with a soft, dry brush or cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as they can damage the paint. If the painting requires more thorough cleaning, consult a professional art conservator.
**Step 3: Cover with Glassine Paper**
Cut a piece of acid-free glassine paper that is slightly larger than the painting. Carefully lay the glassine paper over the painting, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles. This provides a crucial barrier to protect the paint layer.
**Step 4: Secure the Glassine Paper**
Use archival tape to secure the glassine paper to the back of the painting. Be careful not to tape the glassine paper directly to the painted surface. Use small pieces of tape and avoid stretching the tape too tightly. The tape should hold the glassine in place without putting pressure on the paint.
**Step 5: Add Corner Protection (If Applicable)**
If the painting is framed, consider using corner protectors to prevent damage to the corners during transit. These protectors are typically made of foam or cardboard and can be easily attached to the corners of the frame.
**Step 6: Wrap with Bubble Wrap**
Wrap the painting with several layers of bubble wrap, ensuring that all sides and edges are adequately protected. Overlap the bubble wrap to create a secure and cushioned layer around the painting. Use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap in place.
**Step 7: Create Protective Layers with Foam Boards or Cardboard**
Cut two pieces of foam board or cardboard that are slightly larger than the wrapped painting. Place one piece of foam board or cardboard on each side of the painting to provide additional protection against impact. Tape these protective layers securely in place. This “sandwich” method is especially important for larger or more fragile paintings.
**Step 8: Choose the Right Size Box**
Select a box that is slightly larger than the protected painting, allowing for at least 2-3 inches of space on all sides for cushioning materials. A box that is too small will not provide adequate protection, while a box that is too large will allow the painting to shift during transit.
**Step 9: Prepare the Box**
Line the bottom of the box with a layer of bubble wrap or packing peanuts. This will provide a cushion for the painting and help to absorb any impact during transit.
**Step 10: Place the Painting in the Box**
Carefully place the wrapped and protected painting into the box, ensuring that it is centered and that there is adequate space on all sides for cushioning materials.
**Step 11: Fill Empty Spaces with Cushioning Material**
Fill any empty spaces in the box with bubble wrap or packing peanuts. Make sure that the painting is snugly packed and cannot shift during transit. Avoid overpacking the box, as this can put pressure on the painting.
**Step 12: Seal the Box Securely**
Seal the box securely with high-quality packing tape. Use several layers of tape to reinforce the seams and prevent the box from opening during transit.
**Step 13: Label the Box Clearly**
Label the box clearly with the following information:
* **”Fragile”**: Use large, bold letters to indicate that the contents are fragile.
* **”Handle with Care”**: Reinforce the fragile nature of the contents.
* **”This Side Up”**: Indicate the correct orientation of the box.
* **Tracking Number**: If shipping the painting, include the tracking number.
* **Your Name and Address**: Include your name and address as the sender.
* **Recipient’s Name and Address**: Include the recipient’s name and address.
Use a permanent marker to write clearly and legibly on all sides of the box.
**Step 14: Consider Insurance**
If you are shipping a valuable painting, consider purchasing insurance to protect against loss or damage during transit. The insurance coverage should be sufficient to cover the full value of the painting. Keep records of the painting’s value, including appraisals or purchase receipts.
## Packing Specific Types of Paintings
While the general steps outlined above apply to most paintings, there are some specific considerations for different types of artwork.
**Packing Oil Paintings:**
* Oil paintings can take a very long time to fully cure. Ensure the paint is completely dry before packing. If the painting is still slightly tacky, allow more drying time or consult a professional conservator.
* For older oil paintings, be especially careful when cleaning the surface. The paint may be fragile and susceptible to damage.
**Packing Acrylic Paintings:**
* Acrylic paintings are generally more durable than oil paintings, but they are still susceptible to scratches and dents.
* Ensure the glassine paper is smooth and wrinkle-free to prevent it from sticking to the acrylic paint.
**Packing Watercolor Paintings:**
* Watercolor paintings are extremely delicate and sensitive to moisture.
* Use extra layers of glassine paper and bubble wrap to protect the painting from humidity.
* Consider using a desiccant packet inside the box to absorb any excess moisture.
* If the watercolor is framed with glass, reinforce the glass with painter’s tape to prevent it from shattering.
**Packing Framed Paintings:**
* As mentioned earlier, use corner protectors to prevent damage to the corners of the frame.
* If the frame is particularly ornate or fragile, consider wrapping it separately with bubble wrap before wrapping the entire painting.
* Ensure that the glass or acrylic glazing is securely attached to the frame. If it is loose, consult a professional framer.
**Packing Large Paintings:**
* Large paintings require extra support and cushioning.
* Use heavy-duty cardboard or custom-built crates for added protection.
* Consider hiring a professional art handler to pack and transport large paintings.
## Additional Tips for Safe Packing
* **Take Photos:** Before packing, take detailed photos of the painting from all angles. This will serve as proof of its condition before shipping and can be helpful in case of a claim.
* **Keep Records:** Keep copies of all shipping documents, insurance policies, and appraisals.
* **Consider Climate Control:** If storing paintings, choose a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
* **Avoid Extreme Temperatures:** Do not store or ship paintings in extreme heat or cold.
* **Don’t Overpack:** While it’s important to cushion the painting well, avoid overpacking the box, as this can put pressure on the artwork.
* **Hire Professionals:** For valuable or delicate paintings, consider hiring professional art handlers to pack and transport your artwork. They have the expertise and experience to ensure the safe arrival of your paintings.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Using the Wrong Materials:** Using non-archival materials like masking tape or newspaper can damage the painting over time.
* **Insufficient Cushioning:** Not providing enough cushioning can lead to damage from impact during transit.
* **Improper Sealing:** Not sealing the box properly can allow moisture and dust to enter, damaging the painting.
* **Incorrect Labeling:** Not labeling the box clearly can result in mishandling during shipping.
* **Neglecting Insurance:** Not purchasing insurance for valuable paintings can leave you vulnerable to financial loss in case of damage or loss.
## Conclusion
Packing paintings for moving, shipping, or storage requires careful planning and execution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can protect your valuable artwork from damage and ensure its safe arrival. Remember to use high-quality materials, pack the painting securely, and label the box clearly. For valuable or delicate paintings, consider hiring professional art handlers. With proper care and attention, you can confidently pack your paintings like a pro and preserve them for years to come.