At Hancock Gallery we pack artworks for clients all around the world, and ensuring each piece arrives in pristine condition is something we take very seriously.
To help our friends of the gallery feel equally confident when moving their own works, our team has put together a step-by-step guide so that you, too, can pack your artwork to the highest standard.
What you will need
- Packing tape
- Bubble wrap
- Fragile tape
- Foam or cardboard corners
- Cardboard box
- Sheets of cardboard
- Stretch film and dispenser
- Stanley knife
- Metal ruler
- Sheets of adhesive plastic
- Scissors
Step 1: Assess the artwork
Before anything else, take a careful look at the piece. Are there any vulnerable elements that need protecting first, such as glass, protruding corners, or textured paint surfaces? If so, address these before proceeding.
For sculptural corners, foam provides the most substantial protection. Use parcel tape to mould it snugly around the piece. For glass covers on paintings and prints, cut a sheet of adhesive plastic to size and apply it directly to the glass surface. To safeguard textured paintings, cut a sheet of cardboard to the dimensions of the canvas and hold it in place whilst you continue to the next step.
Step 2: Secure the piece
Place foam corners onto each corner of the frame. Then, using your mini stretch film dispenser, wrap the film around the frame to hold all corners firmly in place.
Step 3: Check once more
With the piece looking well secured, give it a final inspection. If anything still seems vulnerable for transit, add a layer of bubble wrap for extra reassurance.
Step 4: Prepare the box
Line both the base and the top interior of the box with bubble wrap, creating a generous cushioned layer that will absorb any impact during transit.
Step 5: Place and check for gaps
Lower the piece carefully into the box and check that it sits snugly with no movement. Close the box without sealing it and gently shift it from side to side. If nothing slides, you are ready for the final step.
Step 6: Seal and label
Seal the box firmly with parcel tape, apply fragile tape where appropriate, and label the work clearly. Your artwork is now packed to a professional standard and ready for its journey.
One less thing to worry about when your treasured works are on the move. For more expert advice from our gallery team, follow us on Instagram.
