While framed pictures, wall hangings, and artwork might be the first items you prepare before a move, knowing how to properly pack such fragile items without damaging them can be intimidating. Items like sculptures, paintings, and family photographs can hold both sentimental and monetary value and storing them incorrectly can have detrimental effects. Learn which packing supplies you should use for your next move, as well as a few moving tips in the following guide.

Common Questions About Packing Pieces of Art

What materials should I use for packing artwork?

Stock up on artwork-friendly packing supplies, including painter’s tape, packing cardboard, cushioning wrap, and clean packing paper. Avoid using packing peanuts or newspaper, as newspapers can transfer ink onto your delicate artwork, and packing peanuts can become gummy if exposed to moisture, sticking to paint, and damaging canvases.

How do I prevent glass frames from breaking?

When packing framed artwork or photography, use painter's tape to make an X across one side of the glass. The tape will strengthen the glass by absorbing any impact shock. If the glass breaks during shipping, the tape will also help hold it in place, reducing any potential damage from glass shards and preventing injury during cleanup.

Once taped, lay it against a clean piece of packing cardboard cut the same size as the frame, then carefully wrap it in a sheet of cushioning material two times the size of the frame. 

Do I need to purchase special picture boxes?

Traditional cardboard doesn't offer the same level of durability and strength that picture boxes afford. Unlike regular boxes, picture boxes have multiple layers of cardboard to create a heavy-duty barrier around your fragile art pieces. Because picture boxes can be a bit pricier than traditional cardboard boxes, save money by using them on expensive or valuable items. 

How do I protect sculptures during shipping?

If possible, disassemble larger statues to make it easier to pack each piece separately and provide maximum protection. Smaller items can be packaged in a single container.

Wrap statues and sculptures in sections, reinforcing the upper and lower halves twice with cushion wrap, then cover any gaps in the middle with additional wrappings. Place the wrapped piece in an upright position inside a large shipping box and fill the negative space with packing peanuts to create an impact buffer. Label the box as fragile before transit.

Protect your precious works of art with packing supplies from Carlton Movers in Cincinnati, OH. Serving 13 states, their friendly and knowledgeable team offers a wide variety of moving supplies designed to protect your belongings while making your move easier and convenient. Contact them today at (513) 579-0007 with questions about their inventory, or visit their website to learn more about their services.