Packaging unframed art prints is a key component of becoming a successful art print seller. Your prints must arrive with your customer in pristine condition – not bent, folded or wet so you must ensure that your packaging prevents any damage.
How to package art prints effectively
I only sell unframed prints and so am focusing this page on how I package my prints. I use quite a few different packaging supplies for different prints and sizes; These include:
Do Not Bend Envelopes – These have the text ‘Please do not bend’ on the front and have a cardboard back;
Greyboard backing card AKA Hardboard – this is a sheet of thick card; I use 1000 microns thick which I think is a nice thickness to protect my prints.
- UK : Greyboard
- USA : Greyboard / Chipboard Sheets
Clear Cello Sleeves – I use biodegradable cornstarch sleeves as I want my business to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
Stickers – a handmade sticker to make the package look a little prettier;
- UK : Handmade with Love Sticker Roll
- USA : Handmade with Love Sticker Roll – complete bargain for 800 stickers!!!
A thank you card – with a link to my shop and perhaps a discount code.
PIP boxes / mailers – For bulkier or multiple prints
- UK : PIP boxes
- USA : Cardboard Mailers (just make sure these are not too deep for your needs)
Packaging Tubes : I try and avoid using these as I’m a bit squeamish about bending and rolling up my prints. But these are quite sturdy and a lot of artists use them!
How to Package Art Prints so they don’t get damaged :
This is how I ship my art prints :
- I pop the print in a (biodegradable) cello sleeve with a thank you card
- I seal the cello bag at the front of the print – this is important to note. I seal at the front as occasionally when customers remove the print from the cello they may accidentally stick the sticky sealer area to the print. If the sticky area is at the back there is less likelihood of the print becoming damaged. Some people don’t seal at all – I’ve pondered this but I think I would like my prints to be protected from any moisture and I think sealing it gives additional protection from this so I do seal.
- I attach a cute sticker at the front.
- Next I add my greyboard behind the print and insert both into the hardboard envelope – I ensure that there is cardboard at the front and also at the back of the print to protect both sides.
- If I am posting abroad I add 2 pieces of greyboard for additional protection.
- If I am posting something more bulky or a few prints together I will use a PIP mailer box which is made of stronger cardboard still.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this article – If you have a question about the how to package art prints why not pop it down here :
