Safely Shipping Oil Paintings through the Mail

As an artist, the process of preparing and shipping your oil paintings can be quite nerve-wracking. Whether you’re sending your artwork to a gallery for an exhibition or delivering it to a customer, ensuring its safe arrival is crucial. Allow me to provide you with some valuable tips and recommendations so you can securely ship your precious creations through the mail.

Imagine this scenario: Your aunt requests a painting depicting your mother and her as kids, a sentimental piece that holds deep emotional significance. Just like shipping delicate heirlooms or fragile treasures, protecting your artwork from potential damage during transit requires careful packaging and attention to detail.

Think of packaging your artwork as creating a protective cocoon for it. First and foremost, start by gently removing any excess paint from the surface using a soft cloth or tissue paper. This step is akin to gently cleaning an old photograph before preserving it in an album. By doing this, you prevent smudging or smearing during transportation.

Once cleaned, give your painting an added layer of protection by covering it with glassine paper, which acts as a shield against dust and moisture. Think of glassine paper as the protective sleeve you slide important documents into before tucking them away in a folder.

Now comes the framing stage – not just any ordinary frame though! Create a sturdy structure around your painting using wooden stretchers or cardboard corners. These protectors play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of the artwork by preventing any bending or folding that could potentially damage it. Imagine building fortifications around something precious to safeguard it from any harm.

To shield the painting from external impacts during its journey through the mail system, carefully wrap it with bubble wrap. Pretend you’re wrapping a fragile porcelain figurine – make sure all edges are adequately padded before tightly securing them with tape. For added peace of mind, consider adding additional layers of bubble wrap or foam sheets around the entire package for extra cushioning.

Now that your artwork is well-protected, it’s time to select the right shipping box. Opt for a box that provides ample space for cushioning materials while still fitting snugly around your wrapped painting. Double-walled boxes are highly recommended for their sturdiness. Fill any remaining gaps inside the box with packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper, or foam inserts. Think of these fillers as supportive pillows that prevent your artwork from shifting or moving during transit.

Proper labeling is key to ensuring smooth handling and delivery of your artwork. Mark all sides of the box with a clear “FRAGILE” using bright-colored markers, as if you’re waving a red flag to catch the attention of postal workers and handlers. By doing so, you increase the chances of your package being treated with extra care. Though you might end up marking it with a big red bullseye, too.

Now let’s talk about an optional but important step: considering insurance for your shipment against loss or damage during transportation. While accidents are rare, having insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection should the worst happen. It’s like getting travel insurance – you hope you won’t need it, but it’s there just in case.

When it comes to choosing a courier service for shipping oil paintings, opting for a reputable company that specializes in art transportation is highly recommended. These professionals have experience in handling delicate artworks, minimizing the risk of mishandling or improper treatment during transit.

Each painting holds its own unique characteristics and vulnerabilities based on factors such as size, medium, and fragility. If ever in doubt about the best practices for shipping your particular artwork, seek advice from other artists or experts in the field who can offer valuable insights based on their experiences.

I understand that this process may seem daunting at first glance, and it might be one reason why you’ve been hesitant to market your work actively, it has been for me. However, by following these guidelines and utilizing professional services when needed, you can significantly increase the chances of your artwork arriving safely at its destination. So don’t let shipping concerns hold you back – share your artistic creations with the world without worrying about their journey through the mail!