How to Protect an Acrylic Face Painting in Shipping

Acrylic paintings can be damaged by moisture.

An acrylic painting can be damaged during shipping if not properly protected with the right materials. Paintings are generally shipped in either cylindrical or flat containers. Both shapes of packages require insulation between the surface of the painting and the outer packaging material. You can construct your own container if you cannot find the right size of container offered for sale. An acrylic face painting requires insulation and proper packaging to protect every inch of the canvas that has been painted on.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard
• Cardboard tubes
• Cardboard corner guards
• Tape
• Bubble wrap
• Plastic bag
• Acid free paper
• Shipping label

Instructions

1. 

   Use cardboard to package an acrylic painting.

   Roll the painting around a cardboard tube if it is not stretched over a canvas. Position the face toward the cardboard tube, paint-side in. Tape the canvas in place, then roll the exterior of the painting with bubble wrap.

2. 

   Use acid free paper to prevent damage.

   Cover the face side of the painting with acid-free paper and secure with tape if the painting is already stretched on a frame for display. Then wrap the entire painting with bubble wrap. Protect the corners with cardboard corner guards.

3. 

   Do not let the bubble wrap touch the paint.

   Place the painting into a plastic bag. Insulate the painting with more cardboard. If the painting has been wrapped around a cardboard tube, place it inside of another cardboard tube.

4. 

   Label the package clearly.

   Tape around the perimeter of the painting. If shipping in a cardboard tube, tape both ends of cylinder. Affix shipping label.

Tips & Warnings

• Save the receipt for the purchase or commission of the painting or have the painting appraised before shipment and save the appraisal. Insure the shipment for the full value of the painting.

• Do not allow the plastic from the bubble wrap or plastic bags to touch the surface of the painting. Plastic can cause a reaction with the acrylic paint that will damage the surface and obscure the image of the face. Only allow cardboard or acid-free paper to come into direct contact with the painting during shipment.

References

• Empty Easel: Practical Tips How to Safely Package and Ship Paintings