How To Pack A Painting For Shipping: Expert Guide

Can you pack a painting yourself for shipping? Yes, you can, but it requires careful attention to detail and the right art packing supplies to ensure your artwork arrives safely. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing materials to final preparation, helping you to confidently pack your paintings for transit, whether they are shipping delicate items or shipping fragile art.

The Importance of Proper Packing

Shipping artwork can feel like sending a precious child on a long journey. The world of shipping is unpredictable, with bumps, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations being common. Without adequate protection, even the most robust canvas can suffer damage. This guide aims to demystify the process of professional art packing, ensuring your treasured pieces are shielded from harm. We’ll cover everything from selecting the best art shipping materials to the critical steps that make a difference.

Why Pack Art With Care?

Preventing Physical Damage: This is the primary goal. Cracks, tears, punctures, and abrasions can all ruin a painting.
Protecting Against Environmental Factors: Humidity, extreme temperatures, and even dust can degrade artwork over time.
Maintaining Value: Any damage can significantly reduce the monetary and sentimental value of a piece.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your artwork is packed correctly allows you to relax during the shipping process.

Essential Art Packing Supplies

Gathering the right art packing supplies is the first crucial step. Using the incorrect materials can lead to more problems than it solves.

What You’ll Need:

Glassine Paper or Acid-Free Tissue Paper: For covering the surface of the painting.
Bubble Wrap: Large-bubble wrap is generally preferred for paintings, offering better cushioning. Ensure it’s bubble wrap for paintings specifically designed for this purpose, not the tiny bubble kind.
Cardboard Sheets (Corrugated Cardboard): Sturdy, flat pieces of cardboard are vital for creating protective layers.
Packing Tape (Strong, Wide): For securely sealing all your packaging.
Styrofoam or Foam Board: To create corner protectors and internal bracing.
Sturdy Cardboard Boxes: Double-walled boxes are highly recommended, especially for larger or more valuable pieces. Consider double boxing paintings for maximum protection.
Marker Pen: For labeling your package clearly.

Choosing the Right Materials: A Deeper Dive

Glassine Paper: This is a smooth, glass-like paper that is moisture-resistant and prevents any sticking or damage to the paint surface, especially with textured or impasto paintings. It’s a key component in professional art packing.
Acid-Free Tissue Paper: Similar to glassine, but often less expensive. Ensure it is labeled as “acid-free” to avoid long-term chemical reactions with the artwork.
Bubble Wrap: While all bubble wrap offers cushioning, larger bubbles provide more significant impact absorption. Avoid wrapping the painting directly with bubble wrap that has printed ink, as this can transfer to the surface.
Cardboard: Use sturdy, corrugated cardboard. For very valuable pieces, consider foam board which offers more rigidity.
Boxes: Never underestimate the importance of a good box. For most paintings, especially those sent via standard carriers, double boxing paintings is the gold standard. This means placing your carefully wrapped painting inside one box, and then placing that box inside a larger, outer box with ample cushioning in between.

Packing Steps for Paintings

The order in which you pack your painting matters. Follow these steps precisely to ensure optimal protection.

Step 1: Surface Protection

Cover the Art: Lay your painting flat. Gently cover the entire front surface with glassine paper or acid-free tissue paper.
Secure the Covering: Use a small piece of painter’s tape (low-tack) to secure the paper at one corner, ensuring it doesn’t touch the painted surface directly if possible. Alternatively, you can tape the paper to the backing of the frame.

Step 2: Corner Protection

Create Corner Protectors: Cut pieces of foam board or thick corrugated cardboard into L-shapes. These will protect the vulnerable corners of the painting and frame.
Attach Protectors: Securely tape these L-shaped protectors around each corner of the painting, covering the edges and corners of the frame.

Step 3: Primary Bubble Wrap Layer

Wrap the Painting: Carefully wrap the entire painting, including the corner protectors, in one or two layers of large-bubble bubble wrap. Ensure the bubbles are facing outwards if possible, or that any printed ink is not in direct contact with the artwork’s surface.
Secure the Wrap: Use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap. Tape all seams and edges.

Step 4: Creating a Cardboard Sandwich (for Canvas Paintings without Frames)

If your painting is unframed canvas, you can create a “cardboard sandwich” for added rigidity.

Cut Cardboard: Cut two pieces of sturdy corrugated cardboard, each slightly larger than the painting.
Position the Painting: Place the bubble-wrapped painting between these two cardboard sheets.
Tape Securely: Tape the cardboard sheets together securely around all edges. This creates a rigid “sandwich” that significantly reduces the risk of punctures and bending.

Step 5: The Inner Box (First Layer of Boxing)

Select the Inner Box: Choose a sturdy cardboard box that is slightly larger than your wrapped painting. If you are double boxing paintings, this will be your inner box.
Cushion the Bottom: Place a generous layer of crumpled packing paper, foam peanuts, or bubble wrap at the bottom of the box to create a cushioned base.
Position the Painting: Carefully place the wrapped painting into the box. Ensure it is centered and not touching any of the box walls directly.
Fill Gaps: Fill any remaining empty space around the painting with more cushioning material. The goal is to prevent any movement within the box.
Secure the Top: Add a layer of cushioning material on top of the painting before closing the box.
Seal the Inner Box: Seal the inner box securely with packing tape along all seams and openings.

Step 6: The Outer Box (For Double Boxing)

Select the Outer Box: Choose a second, larger cardboard box. There should be at least 2-3 inches of space between the inner box and the outer box on all sides.
Cushion the Bottom: Place a substantial layer of cushioning material (like bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or crumpled paper) at the bottom of the outer box.
Place the Inner Box: Center the sealed inner box within the outer box.
Fill All Gaps: Fill all the space between the inner and outer boxes with cushioning material. Every inch should be filled to prevent the inner box from shifting. This is crucial for shipping delicate items.
Seal the Outer Box: Seal the outer box thoroughly with packing tape. Reinforce all seams and corners.

Step 7: Labeling and Documentation

Clear Labeling: Clearly label the package with the shipping address and your return address. Use a permanent marker.
Fragile Stickers: Apply “FRAGILE” and “HANDLE WITH CARE” stickers liberally on all sides of the package.
Orientation Arrows: Indicate the correct orientation of the package with “THIS SIDE UP” arrows.
Documentation: Keep a record of the shipping details, including tracking numbers and any insurance information. If you are shipping valuable artwork, consider including a copy of an appraisal or a photograph of the artwork for your records.

Special Considerations for Different Art Types

While the general principles apply to most paintings, some specific types require extra attention.

Framed Paintings

Framed paintings present a slightly different challenge due to the added bulk and potential fragility of the frame itself.

Frame Protection: Ensure the frame is also protected from impacts. The glassine paper and bubble wrap should extend over the frame edges.
Securing the Frame: If the frame is loose, you might need to reinforce it gently with additional padding or tape before wrapping.
Consider a Crate: For very large or valuable framed pieces, crating artwork offers superior protection. A custom wooden crate provides a rigid outer shell that can withstand significant external forces.

Unframed Canvas

Unframed canvases are more susceptible to punctures and creasing.

Stretching Bars: The stretcher bars provide some rigidity, but the canvas itself can still be damaged.
Cardboard Sandwich: As mentioned earlier, the cardboard sandwich method is highly recommended for unframed canvases.
Avoid Rolling (If Possible): While rolling an unframed canvas can save space, it can also cause cracking or stress on the paint and canvas fibers, especially for older or more brittle works. If rolling is absolutely necessary, do so loosely around a large-diameter tube with plenty of cushioning.

Paintings with Textured Surfaces (Impasto)

Thick paint application, known as impasto, can be prone to chipping or cracking if subjected to shock.

Extra Padding: Apply an extra layer of bubble wrap or foam padding specifically around the textured areas.
Avoid Direct Pressure: Ensure no part of the packaging presses directly onto the thickest areas of the paint.

Crating Artwork: The Ultimate Protection

For extremely valuable, large, or historically significant pieces, crating artwork is often the best option. Custom wooden crates offer the highest level of protection against physical damage and environmental factors.

When to Consider Crating:

High Value Artwork: Pieces worth thousands or millions of dollars.
Large Format Paintings: Very large paintings are harder to handle and more prone to damage.
International Shipping: For long-distance transit with multiple handling points.
Delicate or Fragile Mediums: Works on paper or very old, brittle canvases.

Benefits of Crating:

Superior Structural Integrity: Wooden crates are rigid and robust.
Custom Fit: Crates can be built to precisely fit the artwork, minimizing internal movement.
Enhanced Security: Crates can deter theft and tampering.
Easier Handling: Crates often have built-in handles or mounting points.

How Crating Works:

Professional art handlers typically build custom crates. The process often involves:

Initial Packing: The artwork is first packed using the methods described above (glassine, bubble wrap).
Internal Support: The wrapped artwork is often secured within the crate using internal bracing or suspension systems to prevent any movement.
Cushioning: Ample cushioning material is used between the artwork and the crate walls.
Sealing: The wooden crate is then securely sealed.

Insuring Artwork for Shipping

Even with the best packing, accidents can happen. Insuring artwork for shipping is a critical step in protecting your investment.

Key Considerations for Insurance:

Declared Value: You will need to declare the value of the artwork for insurance purposes. This typically requires an appraisal or recent sales record.
Carrier Insurance: Most shipping carriers offer insurance, but read the terms and conditions carefully. They often have limitations and exclusions for artwork.
Third-Party Art Insurers: Consider specialized art insurance providers who understand the unique needs of shipping valuable art. These policies may offer broader coverage.
Documentation: Keep all documentation related to the artwork’s value, condition, and the shipping process. This is vital if you need to file a claim.
Condition Reports: Before packing, create a detailed condition report with photographs of the artwork. This serves as proof of its state prior to shipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with good intentions, a few common mistakes can compromise your packing efforts.

Pitfalls to Sidestep:

Using Standard Moving Boxes: These are often not sturdy enough for the rigors of shipping.
Not Enough Cushioning: Underestimating the amount of cushioning needed is a frequent error.
Allowing Movement: If the artwork can shift within the box, it’s at risk.
Using Tape Directly on Artwork: Never apply packing tape directly to the painted surface or frame finish.
Over-reliance on “Fragile” Stickers: While helpful, stickers are not a substitute for proper packing.
Not Insuring Valuable Pieces: This is a gamble that can be very costly if something goes wrong.
Using Packing Peanuts as the Sole Cushioning: While useful, they can shift. Combine them with other materials for better stability.
Incorrectly Sized Boxes: A box that is too small offers no room for cushioning, while a box that is too large makes it difficult to secure the item effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much bubble wrap should I use?

A: For most paintings, two layers of large-bubble bubble wrap are a good starting point. For very fragile or valuable pieces, consider adding more layers or using foam padding in conjunction with bubble wrap.

Q2: Can I ship a painting without a frame?

A: Yes, but unframed canvases require extra care. The “cardboard sandwich” method is highly recommended to prevent punctures and creasing.

Q3: What is the best way to ship a very large painting?

A: For large paintings, crating artwork is the most secure method. If crating isn’t feasible, ensure you use a very sturdy, double-walled box with ample cushioning, and consider reinforcing the package.

Q4: How do I protect the glass on a framed painting?

A: Cover the glass with painter’s tape in a crisscross pattern before applying glassine or bubble wrap. This helps hold shattered glass together if the frame breaks. Then, proceed with the standard packing steps.

Q5: Should I use foam peanuts?

A: Foam peanuts can be effective as cushioning, but they can shift. It’s best to use them in combination with other materials like crumpled paper or bubble wrap to fill voids and prevent movement. Ensure they are bagged or contained so they don’t escape.

Q6: What’s the difference between glassine paper and regular tissue paper?

A: Glassine paper is a smooth, dense, and moisture-resistant paper that is ideal for protecting delicate surfaces like paintings. Regular tissue paper can be less protective and may leave residue or cause sticking if not acid-free.

Q7: How do I pack a painting with a very thick texture (impasto)?

A: Ensure the thick paint is well-covered and protected from direct pressure. Extra layers of bubble wrap or foam padding around these areas are beneficial.

By following these expert guidelines, you can significantly increase the chances of your artwork arriving at its destination in perfect condition. Proper art packing supplies, meticulous technique, and thoughtful consideration for shipping delicate items will ensure your cherished pieces are protected throughout their journey.