Packing Artwork for Self Storage

At Cube Self Storage, we can store virtually anything for our clients. Some people choose to store their out of season clothing, others store their bikes and accessories and some choose to store their artwork with us. With this in mind, we thought we’d share our top tips for packing your artwork for either short or long term storage

Tip #1 - Frame it or roll it.
When it comes to keeping artwork done on canvases or paper safe during storage, there are two preferred methods. The first is to frame the canvas which will ensure it stays tight across the frame to avoid creasing whilst the frame itself will help to protect the painting, especially if it is behind glass. For pieces of artwork not framed, roll it loosely to prevent tears and creases for occurring.

Tip #2 - Corner guards
If the artwork is framed, then use cardboard corner guards to protect the corners. It is usually corners of frames which will get knocked during transit and storage so by using corner guards you will be protecting both the frame and the artwork itself from damage.

Tip #3 - Packing Materials
When it comes to packing your piece of artwork, avoid both bubblewrap and packing peanuts. Due to the chemicals used to produce Bubblewrap, staining can occur on your artwork whilst it can also trap moisture against the piece and cause either water damage or mould to grow. Packing peanuts should be avoided as the polystyrene is extremely static when the peanuts are broken and these minute fragments may cause damage to the piece.

Tip #4 – Climate controlled storage
To avoid damage to your artwork by the air surrounding it, consider climate controlled storage. Our purpose built climate controlled storage facility allows us to constantly monitor both the temperature and the humidity of the air to ensure your artwork is kept in the best possible conditions.

If you would like any further advice on how to pack artwork or anything else for self storage, or would like to know more about our storage facility, please contact us.