Artwork packaging
Packing works of art is one of the important stages of their transportation. Proper packaging can protect the artwork from physical and environmental damage and prevent financial and spiritual damages.
Correct packaging of works is one of the most essential factors in its safe transportation. Join us to review useful information about the packaging of works of art.
In the video below, you can see how to properly pack a painting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHRiCVzSdvc
Important points in the packaging of works of art
In the packaging of works of art, the following points should be observed:
- Use suitable packaging materials for the effect.
- Place the artwork pieces correctly in the box.
- Use extra packaging to protect the artwork.
Suitable packaging materials
Suitable packaging materials for works of art should have the following characteristics:
- Anti-shock
- anti-humidity
- Insulation
Among the suitable packaging materials for works of art, the following can be mentioned:
- Acid-free paper
- foam
- Bubble plastic
- Wood
- Steel
Place pieces of artwork in the box
Artwork pieces must be boxed in such a way that they are well protected on all sides. For this, foam, bubble wrap, or other packaging materials can be used. Also, wood or steel can be used to make a special box to transport the artwork.
Additional packaging
Additional packaging such as a carton or wooden box can be used to further protect the artwork. This is especially recommended for high-value or sensitive artwork.
Steps of packing artwork
Artwork packaging is usually divided into two stages:
- Primary packaging
- Secondary packaging
More details on each of these steps are provided below:
Primary packaging
In the initial packaging stage, the artwork is protected using basic materials such as gloves, acid-free cloth, and paper. This step is done to protect the artwork from physical damage and contamination.
Use gloves
Wear white cotton gloves to avoid damaging the artwork with your hands.
Use an acid-free cloth
Use an acid-free cloth to protect the artwork from contamination. Acid-free fabrics are usually made of cotton or linen.
Use protective paper
Use protective paper to protect the artwork from impact. Protective papers are usually made of materials such as foam or wax paper.
Secondary packaging
In the secondary packaging stage, the artwork is packed in a special box. Art packaging boxes are usually made of materials such as wood, foam, and plastic, and have high strength and insulation.
Choose the right box
Artwork packaging boxes should be made of materials that protect the artwork from impact, moisture, and temperature changes. Also, there should be enough room for the artwork to move inside the box to prevent it from being damaged by possible jolts.
Use of suitable packaging materials
Inside the box, use suitable packing material to protect the artwork. Suitable packaging materials are usually made from materials such as foam, bubble wrap, and wood.
Paste the box
After wrapping the artwork, seal the box tightly using tape. This prevents the box from opening during shipping.
Check the box
Mark the box with appropriate symbols such as “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP”. This prevents the artwork from being damaged during shipping.
Some important tips for packing works of art:
- Use a reputable shipping company that has experience and knowledge in art packaging.
- Before packing, have the artwork appraised by a professional to ensure its integrity.
- Use quality packaging materials to protect the artwork from physical and environmental damage.
- Close the box tightly to prevent it from opening during shipping.
- Mark the box with appropriate markings to prevent damage to the artwork during shipping.
By following these tips, you can ensure the safe packaging of your artwork.
The stages of artwork packaging in brief
In the following, the stages of packing artworks are briefly explained:
- Clean the surface of the artwork.
- Separate pieces of artwork.
- Wrap each piece with acid-free paper.
- Place the parts in the box and use foam or bubble wrap to protect them.
- Cover the box with paper or plastic.
- Secure the box with packing tape.
Now, let’s examine the important points of packaging different types of artwork.
Packaging of paintings
Paintings are one of the most common types of artwork that need to be packaged carefully. The packaging of paintings is usually divided into two stages:
- First step: frame protection. Wrap the frame with acid-free paper or cloth to prevent damage to the paint and frame.
- Second step: protection of the painting surface. Cover the painting surface with paper or foam so that the painting’s color is not damaged.
Finally, place the painting in a sturdy box and fill the space inside the box with packing materials to prevent the painting from moving during shipping.
Packaging of sculptures
Statues should also be carefully packed to prevent damage. The packaging of the statues is divided into two stages:
- First step: protection of the surface of the sculpture. Cover the surface of the sculpture with acid-free cloth or paper to keep the color and surface of the sculpture intact.
- Second step: fixing the statue. Secure the statue inside the box using wood, foam, or similar material to prevent it from moving during shipping.
Then, put the statue in a strong box and fill the space inside the box with packaging materials like we said when packing the painting so that the movement of the statue during the transportation is as small as possible.
Packaging of other works of art
In addition to paintings and sculptures, other types of artwork need to be carefully packed. For example, suitable materials should be used for packing carpets that do not affect the texture and thread of the effect. For packing high-value works of art, special boxes for transporting works of art should be used.
in the end
The packing of works of art must be done with the utmost precision and delicacy so that the possibility of damage and destruction during the transportation of the works is reduced to zero. Works of art not only have a high material value but also their irreplaceable spiritual and historical value creates the conditions to provide full protection in transportation and movement to reduce its risk. Finally, we will end this article with a summary of important care points in the packaging of works of art:
- Carry out the packing process carefully.
- Use new and undamaged packaging materials.
- Place the packaging materials in such a way that the artwork is not shaken during transport.
- Label the artwork box and write the details of the artwork on it.
If you do not feel confident about packing your artwork, it is recommended that you use a reputable shipping company that has sufficient experience and knowledge in the field of artwork packaging.
More resources to study
To read more, you can refer to the following sources:
HOW TO PACKAGE YOUR ARTWORK: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
