Best Way To Pack Artwork & Mirrors For Moving Safely

Whether it’s a large mirror or a smaller decorative piece of artwork, protective packing is the best way to pack artwork for moving. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the steps and techniques for securely packing artwork and mirrors to safeguard them during the moving process.

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Best Way To Pack Artwork & Mirrors For Moving Safely

As we gear up for our upcoming move, the process of organizing and safeguarding cherished pieces has become a top priority.

 In an effort to streamline this daunting task, we’re delving into the intricacies of packing valuable artwork and mirrors, and we’ll soon be sharing a comprehensive moving checklist to aid others in their own relocations. 

 We’re in the midst of paring down our belongings. While a lot of our furniture will be sold we do plan to move our wall art, frame televisions,  and large decorative mirrors. 

With these belongings, packing can be tricky.  I’ll share here how we plan to move them safely and tips for you too.

Gather The Right Packing Supplies

The first thing to do when preparing for your next move is to stock up on the right supplies. 

Strong moving boxes are a must. However, you may need speciality boxes for larger paintings, mirrors, or frames. 

In addition to moving boxes, you’ll want to have packing tape or masking tape; plastic wrap;  bubble wrap; and some type of paper. You can use glassine paper, parchment paper, tissue paper, or brown paper. Each of these have slightly different benefits, but overall they are great protectors.

Lastly, you’ll also want to gather cardboard corner protectors. These are perfect for flat picture boxes or mirror boxes to protect the frame edges.

How To Pack Art Pieces With Glass Covers

For art pieces with a glass cover, start by using blue painter’s tape to make an X across the glass surface. 

This simple trick can save your piece if the glass breaks during transport.

 Then, wrap the glass-covered artwork in glassine paper, which acts like parchment paper, providing a barrier against fingerprints and moisture. 

Next, you’ll want to apply a thick layer of bubble wrap for extra padding.

Finally, secure it all with packing tape. 

Once your items are secured you can choose to pack these pieces in appropriate size boxes or specialty box frames.

Personally, I love packing smaller picture frames in larger boxes with blankets and towels for extra padding. This is a great way to pack your sheets, towels, or blankets, and helps stabilize the frames within the box.

How To Pack Canvas Paintings And Fine Art

When it comes to canvas art, such as oil paintings, extra care is a must. 

Wrap your canvas painting in glassine paper to protect it from direct contact, then add cardboard corner protectors. 

Wrap the entire piece in bubble wrap for a snug fit, and consider placing it in its own cardboard box or custom wooden crate for added protection.

How to Pack Mirrors, TVs, And  Large Pictures

Large mirrors, televisions, and pictures demand a flat surface for safe packing. 

Begin by reinforcing the glass with masking tape and then swaddle the piece in a generous amount of bubble wrap. 

Ensure there’s enough room in the moving box for a snug fit, and fill any extra space with packing paper to keep the mirror or glass from shifting. 

Depending on the size of your larger items, you may need to get creative to find a box to fit.

For extra protection, you can double-box the piece by placing the first box into a second box lined with more cushioning material.

If you are unable to find a box that fits, I highly suggest transporting those items yourself and not placing them on the moving truck.

You can use moving blankets as extra protection and place these fragile items in the trunk of your car.

How To Pack Sculptures And Delicate Items

Small sculptures and other delicate items require plenty of packing paper and bubble wrap. 

Wrap each entire sculpture in tissue paper first, followed by bubble wrap for extra protection, and place them in their own box, ensuring that the bottom of your box is lined with a soft layer of packing material. 

Larger sculptures might need a custom solution, such as a wooden crate, to prevent any risk of damage.

Packing Valuable Paintings And Art Collections

Each valuable painting should have its own box. 

Lay a piece of cardboard or a layer of packing paper at the bottom of the box for added cushioning. 

After wrapping each painting, place it in the center of the box and fill any extra space with crumpled packing paper to keep the painting from moving.

 If you have valuable paintings, consider opting for climate-controlled storage during transport for the best protection.

Transportation Tips

When loading into the moving truck, make sure that your packed artwork and mirrors are placed in a safe place, ideally towards the back of the truck. 

You’ll want to secure them so they don’t shift during the journey. Use extra padding around the boxes if needed to ensure there’s no movement.

Labeling Is Key

Always label your boxes containing art pieces and mirrors as “fragile” to alert anyone handling them to proceed with caution. 

This is especially important if you’re working with a professional moving company, as it will inform the movers to handle these items with special care.

Enlisting Professional Movers

For those particularly valuable items or if you’re not comfortable packing them yourself, consider hiring professional movers who specialize in art and mirrors. 

These experts often provide services that include custom crating and climate-controlled transportation, which can be crucial for fine art and delicate items.

Unpacking Your Art In Your New Home

Once you’ve arrived at your new home, unpack your art and mirrors as soon as possible. This minimizes their risk of being damaged by other moving activities. 

Carefully inspect each piece as you unpack to ensure there are no damages. If you do find damage and you’ve hired a moving company, report it immediately since most companies have a limited window for insurance claims.

FAQs

Check out these frequently asked questions on the best way to pack artwork and mirrors for your next move.

Q: Can I Use Regular Boxes To Pack Artwork & Mirrors?

A: It’s generally not recommended to use regular boxes to pack artwork and mirrors, especially if they are large or fragile. 

Artwork and mirrors are best packed in specialty mirror boxes or artwork boxes that are designed to provide adequate protection.

 These boxes are sturdier and offer additional support to help prevent damage during transit. Using the right boxes can help ensure that your artwork and mirrors arrive at their destination safely and in good condition.

Q: Should I Use Tape Directly On The Surface Of The Artwork Or Mirror?

A: It’s not recommended to use tape directly on the surface of artwork or mirrors, as it can leave residue or damage the item.

 However, if you need to secure the surface of a glass artwork or mirror, you can use a specific kind of tape called “artist’s tape” or “framing tape.” 

This tape is designed to be gentle on delicate surfaces. It should be applied in a crisscross pattern to help prevent shattering in case of breakage. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the tape won’t cause any damage.

Q: Can I Pack Multiple Pieces In The Same Box?

A: It’s generally best to pack each piece of artwork or mirror separately to prevent them from bumping into each other and causing damage during transit. 

This approach allows for better protection and reduces the risk of scratches, cracks, or breakage. If you must pack multiple pieces in the same box due to space constraints, be sure to wrap each item individually and provide ample padding to keep them securely in place and prevent movement. 

However, whenever possible, it’s advisable to pack each piece separately to ensure the highest level of protection.

Q: How Do I Transport Packed Artwork Or Mirrors?

A: When transporting packed artwork or mirrors, it’s important to handle them with care to prevent damage. 

Always transport artwork and mirrors in an upright position to minimize the risk of damage. This helps prevent undue pressure on the glass or frame. 

When loading the packed items into a moving truck or vehicle, place them in a secure location where they are less likely to shift during transit. 

Use straps or tie-downs to keep them in place. 

Try to avoid exposing the packed artwork or mirrors to extreme temperatures during transport, as rapid temperature changes can cause glass to expand or contract and increase the risk of breakage. 

Finally, plan your route carefully to avoid bumpy roads and sharp turns, as these can potentially damage the packed items.

Q: Should I Consider Professional Packing Services For Valuables?

A: Yes, considering professional packing services for valuable artwork or mirrors is a prudent choice. It may be a good investment, especially if the items hold significant monetary or sentimental value. 

Professional packers have the expertise, experience, and specialized materials necessary to ensure that your valuable pieces are packed securely and transported safely. Consider insuring valuable items during the moving process for added peace of mind.

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