How to post Pastel Artwork

KARIE-ANN COOPER Author

How to post pastel artwork so it arrives in perfect condition anywhere worldwide. Ensure your artwork isn't damaged by using this simple method.

This is how I pack unframed pastel paintings. I have had no issues with this method, the artwork arrives at the destination safely and in perfect condition.

The main thing about posting pastel artwork is that for the piece to arrive in the same condition it leaves your studio it should be flat packed. I know some artists roll them in tubes with great success but after spending many hours on my art I would rather pay a little extra and post it this way. This piece is 11x14 inches and mounted with archival cream mountboard and a stiff backing board for extra firmness.

I use glassine sheets to wrap the mounted artwork in which prevents any smudging and creates no static.

I also pull the glassine as tight as I can, to ensure the surface over the top of the pastal painting is tight, this way it will probably not actually touch any pastel.

I use 5mm thick foamboard, also known as foamcore which is quite inexpensive and can be reused but is also recyclable, you need to find somewhere that takes Type 6 materials. 

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For stability I use a top and bottom for a foamcore sandwich which will stay rigid during posting. The foamcore is cut just a little larger than the mounted artwork. For smaller pieces I use corrugated cardboard and ensure the corrugate of top and bottom of the sandwich is at right angles to each other, again this will make the sandwich very sturdy.

The artwork is slipped between the two pieces of foamcore to create the sandwich and I tape the pastel painting down to one piece of foamboard. I use framers tape as it is easily removed after delivery without too much hassle for the client. I simply put the other piece of foamboard on top and tape down securely. The idea is to ensure there is no movement within the sandwich, this will prevent any smudging and will keep the artwork safe between two rigid walls.

I usually place any paperwork and business cards inside the sandwich then I wrap it in recycled brown paper, again this also prevents the sandwich from falling apart and adds to the stability of the package. 

Lastly I use eco friendly jiffy bags to keep the artwork dry during transit and the padding inside is made of shredded paper which adds plenty of cushioning.

I have posted to Australia from England using this technique without any issues and these materials are all very light to help keep postage to a minimum.

If you find this post helpful, please feel free to share it with other pastel artists.

Categories: art tips