Tough Tows – Paintings and Sculptures

I know, I know, the moniker of ‘Tough Tows’ might seem like overkill for something as simple as artwork. This segment often points its cross-hairs at the heavy, unwieldy things in your life. But consider how unwieldy a fragile piece of paper can be. The finesse and care involved with moving a collection of artwork is no sleigh ride.

Because art is so valuable (both personally and financially), damaging your artwork is much more devastating than a broken glass. Set aside some time early on to get a start on packing these items. Real estate agents often recommend you take down artwork during stagings, it might even be the first thing you pack. Whatever your reason, know that putting the time into properly preparing framed art or canvases is best to be done carefully.

Getting Started

It’s time to raid your local grocer and post office for packing supplies. Pick up a roll of bubble wrap or cellophane cloth if you can find it. Arm yourself with scissors, a box-cutter, packing tape, and some loose cardboard for good measure. The boxes you’ll be using to pack the paintings should be long enough to fit the largest of your frames. Look online to find a box that suits your packing needs if you can’t find what you need in stores.

Next, gather your collection of framed masterpieces and clear off the kitchen table so you’ll have some room to work. For pieces that are framed behind glass, tape an ‘x’ on the surface of the glass to keep it from damaging the artwork. This method works just as well for canvas-based artwork. However, if you’re interested in taking special measures you can invest in a specialty box that will provide extra protection.

Pack that Art!

Using the boxes you got from the grocer, cover the contents of the frame with a square of cardboard. This is done to provide a hard shell for the business end of your paintings and photographs. Now wrap the artwork in a thick layer of cellophane or bubble wrap, securing the material at the back end with a cross-stitch of packing tape. The final product should feel tight and the cardboard should not be able to move from within.

Box things up snugly with little to no wiggle room. Cut a couple lengths of cheap wood or use extra cardboard to create slots within your packaging. Keep the contents rigid by filling excess space with rags or packing paper. Remember to clearly mark the top end of the box, as well as signify that it contains fragile goods.

Sculptures, Unframed Prints, and Small Pieces of Art…

For sculptures, think about how the piece is weighted. Ask yourself if you can stack it, if it can be upside down, or if parts of it could be easily bent or broken whilst moving. Protect the more fragile parts or (if the whole thing is fragile) wrap it all up with bubble. When it comes to your unframed prints, posters and such, consider investing in a mailing tube. And all those small pieces of art can be wrapped with cellophane and stored in a box.

Ready for the Road?

Keep boxes upright when loading the moving truck. If packing alongside unstable items, be sure to brace the boxes with a sheet of plywood in case of sudden movement. Wedge Any unboxed framed pictures that are leftover between couches. The boot of your car is safer if you’re worried things will shift in the back of the moving truck.

Of course, hiring a moving company is a great way to keep your art unscathed throughout the moving process. Hendra’s professionals will take great care in the process of moving your artwork. Request an estimate today to get a head start on your next move.