Soft pastel artworks, whether on Pastelmat paper or velour paper, require special care when wrapping and shipping to ensure they reach their destination in pristine condition. These delicate mediums can easily smudge or get damaged if not properly protected. Whether you're an artist preparing to send your masterpiece to a buyer or someone shipping a pastel artwork as a gift, follow these steps to ensure safe delivery.
1. Protect the Surface:
- Begin by placing a glassine paper over the surface of the artwork. Glassine is a smooth, non-abrasive paper that prevents smudging and protects the delicate pastel layers.
- Secure the glassine paper in place using low-tack artist's tape. Avoid using regular tape, as it may damage the artwork upon removal.
2. Support and Padding:
- Place a piece of foam board or cardboard larger than the artwork behind it to provide support and prevent bending during transit.
- Use additional foam board or cardboard pieces to create a sandwich around the artwork, ensuring it's well-protected on all sides.
3. Wrap Securely:
- Carefully wrap the artwork and supporting materials with several layers of bubble wrap. Be sure to cover all edges and corners to provide extra protection.
- Secure the bubble wrap with packing tape, ensuring it's tightly sealed but not too tight to avoid damaging the artwork.
4. Choose a Sturdy Shipping Box:
- Select a shipping box that provides ample space for the wrapped artwork and padding materials. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of shipping without collapsing or getting crushed.
- Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent shifting during transit.
5. Labeling and Handling Instructions:
- Clearly label the box as "Fragile" and "Handle with Care" to alert shipping carriers to the delicate nature of the contents.
- Include handling instructions such as "Do Not Bend" or "Keep Upright" to ensure proper treatment during transit.
6. Insurance and Tracking:
- Consider purchasing shipping insurance to protect the artwork in case of loss or damage during transit. Many shipping carriers offer insurance options for valuable items.
- Always opt for a shipping method that provides tracking information so you can monitor the package's progress and ensure timely delivery.
7. Shipping Considerations:
- Choose a reputable shipping carrier with experience handling delicate items like artwork.
- If you can, avoid shipping during extreme weather conditions, as temperature and humidity fluctuations can affect the quality of pastel artworks.
8. Communicate with the Recipient:
- If you're sending the artwork as a gift or for a specific deadline, communicate with the recipient about the expected delivery date and any special handling instructions.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your soft pastel artworks, whether on Pastelmat or velour paper, arrive safely at their destination, ready to be enjoyed by their new owner. Taking the time to properly wrap and ship your artwork demonstrates care and professionalism, enhancing the overall experience for both the sender and recipient.
Have you ever shipped or received a soft pastel artwork? We'd love to hear about your packaging and shipping tips or any memorable experiences in the comments below!
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