Whether you’re sending artwork to a client, giving a print as a gift, or storing it safely, protecting your art prints during wrapping and transport is crucial. Even minor creases, scratches, or moisture exposure can ruin a beautiful piece. Follow these expert tips to wrap art prints safely and professionally.
1. Start With Clean Hands and Workspace
Before handling your prints:
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Wash and dry your hands to avoid transferring oils or dirt.
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Clear a large, flat surface for wrapping.
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If possible, work on a soft, clean mat or table to prevent scratches.
This small step drastically reduces the risk of accidental damage.
2. Use Protective Paper or Sleeves
The first layer should protect the print from direct contact:
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Glassine paper: Acid-free, smooth, and moisture-resistant — ideal for wrapping individual prints.
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Plastic sleeves: Clear polypropylene sleeves offer moisture protection and let you see the artwork.
Avoid regular tissue paper, which can cause smudging or stick to inks, especially for inkjet or giclée prints.
3. Choose the Right Outer Layer
After protecting the print itself, add a sturdy outer layer to prevent bending:
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Kraft paper rolls: Affordable and strong; wrap around prints or tubes.
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Cardboard backing: Place behind the print inside the wrapping to prevent folding.
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Art tubes: For rolled prints, use a strong tube with end caps to avoid crushing.
For fragile or high-value prints, consider double layers of cardboard and bubble wrap.
4. Secure, But Don’t Overdo It
When taping your wrapped print:
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Use acid-free tape for archival-quality prints.
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Avoid taping directly onto the artwork — tape the wrapping paper or sleeve instead.
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Keep pressure light; too tight can leave creases or dents.
5. Label Clearly
If shipping or gifting:
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Mark “Fragile” or “Do Not Bend” on the outer packaging.
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Include any handling instructions if necessary, such as “Keep Flat” or “Do Not Stack.”
Clear labeling ensures postal or courier staff know to handle the package with care.
6. Roll Large Prints Correctly
For larger prints (A2 and above) that need to be rolled:
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Roll loosely around a tube, print side out to prevent curling.
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Cover with a protective sheet and then a tube.
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Seal tube ends with caps or tape to prevent moisture entry.
This method avoids permanent creases while keeping shipping compact.
7. Consider Shipping Materials
If you’re sending prints through the mail:
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Rigid mailers: Great for small to medium prints; prevents bending.
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Double-tube system: Smaller tube inside a larger one for extra protection.
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Bubble wrap: Only around the outer layer to cushion against impact.
8. Bonus Tip: Test Your Wrapping
Before sending valuable prints to clients or customers:
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Roll or fold a test print using your chosen method.
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Shake, lift, and gently drop the package from a low height to check durability.
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Adjust materials or tape if needed.
Pro Tip: At Hakyarts, we use glassine sleeves, kraft rolls, and sturdy tubes for all our prints, ensuring every artwork arrives pristine. Following these methods protects the quality, keeps collectors happy, and reduces returns due to shipping damage.
