Art And Me

Canvas Transportation Guide: Safely Moving Your Artwork

A professional art handler wearing white gloves carefully wrapping a large canvas painting in protective materials, photographed from a 3/4 angle. The workspace shows acid-free paper, bubble wrap, corner protectors, and a sturdy art shipping box in the background. Natural lighting from above illuminates the scene, creating a clean, professional atmosphere. The handler's movements suggest precision and care, with the painting partially wrapped to show the process. Photorealistic style, sharp focus, with attention to detail on the protective materials and handling techniques. This prompt aims to create an image that: 1. Shows the practical aspects of art handling 2. Demonstrates proper protective materials 3. Captures the professional and careful nature of artwork transportation 4. Provides visual context for the article's content 5. Appears authentic and instructional 6. Maintains a clean, professional aesthetic that would work well in a blog post

Transferring artwork can be nerve-wracking, particularly when dealing with fragile canvas prints. Either you’re moving house or sending an art piece to an exhibition, secure transit is vital. Let’s explore the imperative steps to ensure your artwork’s safe passage.

Begin with the Right Packing Materials

Before getting underway, make sure you have these essential items:
– Acid-free glassine paper
– Bubble wrap
– Corner protectors
– A robust box or crate
– Packing tape
– “Fragile” stickers

Visualize creating a snug, safeguarding shell for your priceless artwork. Quality resources are your greatest allies in this endeavor!

Prepare Your Canvas

Kick-off with a gentle clean of your canvas by using a soft brush to wipe away any dust. I always ensure my hands are clean and dry prior to touching any art piece. If there’s a protective glass over your piece, apply artist’s tape in a star formation to guard against breakage.

The Encasing Process

Here’s my proven method:
1. Lay the glassine paper over the front
2. Attach corner protectors
3. Wrap the piece in bubble wrap
4. Ensure it’s secure with tape (but don’t overdo it!)

Remember, we’re not aiming to mummify your art – we want to protect it!

Select the Apt Container

Your canvas requires a fittingly-sized holder – neither too large nor too tiny. I recommend boxes specifically manufactured for storing artworks. If you’re shipping several pieces simultaneously, never place one canvas directly atop another.

Tips for Transit

What’s the most common error I see? People placing canvases flat during transit. Always keep them vertical! In a vehicle, keep them tethered against a firm surface and evade areas of extreme heat or cold.

Hire Professionals or Do It Yourself?

On occasion, it can be worthwhile to invest in professional art movers. They are skilled and have access to specialised gear. However, if you’re going the DIY route, take it steadily – be meticulous and follow each stage with care.

Final Precautions

Before your artwork embarks on its journey:
– Verify all seals twice
– Label boxes as “FRAGILE”
– Apply “THIS SIDE UP” stickers
– Include handling directives
– Document with photos for insurance purposes

If Problems Arise

In spite of our best precautions, mishaps can transpire.

Tom Leick

,