Lena Rivera
Moving paintings can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to valuable artwork. While it is possible to cut a painting out of its frame, this is usually done by art thieves to avoid security measures. When moving paintings, it is important to take the right steps to package them properly and ensure they arrive at their destination unscathed. This includes cleaning the paintings, removing hanging hardware, and protecting them with various materials such as palette wrap, bubble wrap, acid-free paper, glassine, and cardboard. Additionally, using high-quality packing tape and properly labelling the boxes as 'fragile and artwork are crucial steps to ensure safe transportation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for cutting out a painting | Ease of transportation, circumvention of security measures |
| Methods of packing artwork for moving | Wrapping in palette wrap, bubble wrap, acid-free paper, glassine, packing paper, newsprint, cardboard, packing tape, corner protectors, cushioning material, durable cardboard boxes |
| Methods of storing artwork | Store in a climate-controlled storage space, avoid the basement, attic, or spaces with temperature fluctuations, avoid rolling canvas too tightly, avoid folding canvas |
| Methods of hanging artwork | D-rings, brackets, cleats, oz-clips, wires, hooks |
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What You'll Learn
Packing and protecting artwork during transit
Art is a precious and delicate item that can be easily damaged, especially during transit. Therefore, it is important to pack artwork carefully and use the right materials. Here are some tips for packing and protecting artwork during transit:
Use the Right Box
If you are moving large pieces of artwork, it is recommended to pack each piece in a separate specialty box that is slightly larger than the frame. These boxes can be purchased at a moving supply store or from a truck rental agency. If you cannot find specialty boxes, you can take apart a used box and flatten it to create a custom box. Place the artwork on top of the flattened box and secure it with packing tape. If the box is large enough, you can bend it around the frame and secure it with tape.
Wrap the Artwork
If your artwork has glass, use masking tape or artist's low-tack tape to place a "X" across the glass. This will prevent the glass from shattering and moving around if it breaks. For artwork without glass, protect the painted surface by wrapping it in several layers of plastic food wrap or commercially available palette wrap.
Then, lay brown paper on a flat work surface, with the ends overlapping to create an area twice the size of your frame. Place the frame glass side down against the paper and wrap the ends of the paper around the frame. Secure it with packing tape, wrapping both lengthwise and widthwise. Repeat the process with bubble wrap for added protection.
Pack the Artwork
Before sealing the box, test it for movement. Gently close the box and wiggle it to ensure that nothing is shifting. If needed, add crumpled newspaper or padding to stabilize the artwork.
When packing the box, keep the artwork on its side, not flat. This will help absorb pressure and reduce the risk of damage. Stand the box on one end and slide the wrapped frame inside. Tape one end of the box closed and mark it with the content, the word "Fragile," and its location.
Use Interleaf Barriers and Dividers
When transporting unframed paintings, use interleaf barriers such as Mylar film or Kraft paper to separate the paintings. Along with interleaf barriers, use acid-free rigid dividers and cushioning to prevent the artwork from shifting during transit. Pack the artwork vertically in a heavy-duty, acid-free cardboard box.
Additional Tips
- Avoid packing multiple large framed pieces in one box to prevent them from damaging each other.
- Use breathable materials such as tissue paper, blankets, and wood crating for long-term storage.
- Custom-made crates can be used to minimize movement and provide a snug fit for your artwork.
- Use packing materials such as bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts to cushion your artwork and prevent scratches or damage.
- Insure your artwork to protect yourself financially in case of any damage during transit.
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Using the right materials to pack paintings
Packing paintings safely for transport involves using the right materials to protect them from damage. Here are some detailed instructions on using the correct materials to pack paintings:
Sorting and Selecting Boxes
Firstly, sort your paintings according to size. Small and medium-sized paintings can be grouped and packed together. For large pieces, it's best to use a separate specialty box for each painting, ensuring the box is slightly larger than the frame. If you don't have a specialty box, you can use a flattened box and secure the frame with packing tape.
Wrapping the Painting
If your painting doesn't have glass, protect the surface by wrapping it in kitchen plastic food wrap or commercially available palette wrap. Then, lay the frame glass side down on a sheet of brown paper, ensuring the paper is twice the size of your frame. Wrap the ends of the paper around the frame, securing it with packing tape. Repeat this process with bubble wrap, ensuring any bubbles are on the outside to avoid impressions on the artwork.
Packing Materials
Use breathable materials such as tissue paper, blankets, and wood crating for long-term storage. For transport, you can use bubble wrap, foam, or plastic, but avoid using these materials for long-term storage as they can trap moisture and damage the artwork.
Packing Unframed Paintings
When packing unframed paintings, use an interleaf barrier such as Mylar film (avoid using it on pastel or charcoal pieces due to its electrostatic charge) or Kraft paper (only when the paintings are completely dry). Place acid-free rigid dividers and cushioning between the paintings to prevent jostling during transport. Pack the artwork vertically in a heavy-duty, acid-free cardboard box.
Canvas Art
For canvas art that is not on a stretcher, roll it up loosely with the painting on the outside, ensuring it is completely dry. Place the canvas in a tube larger than its size and then put that tube inside a larger one. Avoid using bubble wrap with canvas as it can create a humid environment.
Remember, when packing and transporting artwork, always handle the pieces carefully and ensure they are stored in a climate-controlled environment to protect them from temperature fluctuations.
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How to pack framed paintings
Packing framed paintings can be a daunting task, especially when you have large or fragile pieces. However, with careful planning and the right materials, you can safely transport your artwork without causing any damage. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pack framed paintings:
Sorting and Preparing:
Firstly, sort your paintings according to size. Small and medium-sized paintings can be grouped together, while large pieces should be packed separately. If your artwork is on canvas, ensure it is completely dry before rolling it up gently with the painting on the outside. Place it between two pieces of acid-free paper and slide it into a cardboard tube, taping it shut.
Wrapping and Protecting:
For framed paintings with glass, lay them on a flat surface, glass-side down, on a piece of brown paper. Wrap the ends of the paper around the frame like a present, ensuring the bubbles (if any) are on the outside. Use packing tape to secure the paper, then repeat the process with bubble wrap. If your artwork does not have glass, protect the painted surface with plastic food wrap before wrapping.
Boxing and Securing:
Choose the right size and type of boxes for your artwork. Use specialty picture boxes or small moving boxes. Fill the bottom of the box with packing paper for cushioning. Gently slide the painting into the box and add more paper to prevent movement. Mark the glass side of the box and label it as "Fragile." Stand the boxes upright and prevent them from falling over by placing them next to heavy objects.
Transportation and Storage:
When loading the boxes onto a moving truck or into storage, keep the pictures on their sides, packed on their edges. Store boxed artwork upright to prevent shattering the glass. If possible, use a climate-controlled storage space to protect your artwork from poor environmental conditions and temperature fluctuations.
By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can safely pack and transport your framed paintings, ensuring they arrive at their destination undamaged.
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How to pack unframed paintings
Packing unframed paintings requires careful attention to ensure they are not damaged during the moving process. Here are some detailed steps to help you pack your unframed paintings safely:
Sorting and Grouping:
Firstly, sort your artwork according to size. Small and medium-sized unframed paintings can be grouped and packed together. For larger pieces, it is recommended to pack each one separately in its own box.
Materials:
The right materials are essential to protect your unframed paintings. Avoid using newspaper or printed paper, as the ink can transfer and damage your artwork. Instead, opt for acid-free tissue paper, which provides an excellent base layer of protection. You can also use plastic wrap, such as kitchen plastic food wrap or commercially available palette wrap, to cover the painted surface. This will protect the paint and prevent smudges.
Wrapping and Rolling:
If your unframed paintings are on a rollable canvas, it is crucial to ensure they are completely dry before rolling them up loosely. The painting should be on the outside of the roll to avoid damage. Place the rolled canvas inside a tube that is larger than the canvas itself, and then place that tube inside a larger one for added protection.
For unframed paintings that cannot be rolled, use acid-free paper or Mylar film (avoid using Mylar with pastel or charcoal pieces due to its electrostatic charge) as an interleaf barrier between the paintings. This will keep them separated and protected.
Boxing and Padding:
Use heavy-duty, acid-free cardboard boxes to pack your unframed paintings. Place the paintings inside the box vertically, just like hardcover books. Use packing paper or acid-free tissue paper to fill any gaps and cushion the artwork, ensuring it doesn't move around inside the box. You can also use bubble wrap for extra padding, especially around the corners.
Marking and Storing:
Clearly mark the outside of the box with the word "Fragile" and its intended location, such as the bedroom or kitchen. When storing your boxed unframed paintings, choose a climate-controlled environment to protect them from temperature and humidity fluctuations, which can damage the artwork over time.
By following these steps, you can confidently pack your unframed paintings, ensuring their safety during your move.
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How to pack canvas paintings
Packing canvas paintings can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance and materials, you can ensure your precious art pieces arrive at their new home unscathed. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pack and transport canvas paintings safely:
Prepare the Paintings:
Before you start packing, ensure your canvas paintings are clean and free of dust or dirt. Gently wipe them down with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Inspect each piece for any damage, such as cracks or loose frames, and have them repaired before moving. Remove any hanging hardware, such as wires or hooks, from the backside of the frames to prevent tangling or punctures during transit.
Gather the Necessary Supplies:
Having all the required supplies beforehand will save you time and stress. You will need durable cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, packing paper (avoid newspaper as it can leave marks), cushioning material such as foam peanuts, and corner protectors for extra protection. You may also want to use acid-free paper or glassine to wrap the paintings first and protect them from imprints.
Wrap the Paintings:
Place each painting on a flat work surface. If your paintings are not on stretchers, roll them up loosely with the painting facing outwards. Do not fold the canvas. Place the rolled canvas in a tube that is larger than the canvas itself, and then place that tube inside a larger one to avoid a humid environment inside. If your paintings are on stretchers or have glass, wrap them in acid-free paper first to protect against moisture and discoloration. Then, cover them with several layers of plastic food wrap or commercially available palette wrap. Finally, wrap them in bubble wrap, ensuring it does not come into direct contact with the surface of the painting.
Pack the Paintings in Boxes:
Use heavy-duty, acid-free cardboard boxes to pack your wrapped paintings. If using a specialty box, place the frame on top of the flattened box and secure it with packing tape. If the box is large enough, you can bend it around the frame and secure it with tape. For unframed paintings, use interleaf barriers such as Mylar film or Kraft paper (only if the paintings are dry) to separate them. Pack the artwork vertically, as you would hardcover books, with cushioning or padding to keep them from jostling. Mark the outside of the boxes with "Fragile" and their intended location, such as the bedroom or kitchen. When packing and loading the boxes, keep the pictures on their sides, not flat, and wedge them between heavy objects that won't shift during the move.
By following these steps, you can safely transport your canvas paintings to their new home without damage. Remember, proper preparation and packing are crucial to ensuring your artwork's safety during the move.
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Frequently asked questions
First, lay the frame glass side down on a flat surface. Cover the glass with painter's tape to prevent breakage and to keep broken pieces together. Next, wrap the frame with plastic food wrap or palette wrap. Then, place the painting on a sheet of acid-free paper larger than the painting and fold the edges over, securing them with tape. Finally, wrap the painting in bubble wrap with the bubbles facing outward and secure with packing tape.
First, ensure the canvas is completely dry and clean. Then, roll the canvas up loosely with the painting on the outside. Place the canvas in a tube that is larger than the canvas, and then put that tube inside a larger one. Avoid using bubble wrap as it can create a humid environment.
You will need plastic food wrap or palette wrap, acid-free paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, a heavy-duty cardboard box, and cushioning material such as foam peanuts.
Place the painting upright and on its edge in the moving truck to prevent damage. Mark the box with "Fragile" and "Artwork" to ensure careful handling.
