ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Gallery Retail Expert Shares Artwork Wrapping Checklist for Buyer Pickup

publication · 2026-09-25

RedDotBlog has released a professional checklist aimed at ensuring a seamless transfer of artwork during buyer pickups, presenting it as a marketing chance. The guide details five essential steps: gathering high-quality materials, organizing supplies, adhering to a wrapping order, incorporating branding, and managing customer expectations. For unframed prints, utilize clear plastic bags with backing boards. When handling framed pieces with glass, ensure the glass is clean, inspect corners, optionally add tissue or foam, wrap in foam sheeting, and place in a plastic bag. For acrylic paintings, avoid plastic on fresh varnish and opt for foam sheeting instead. The recommendations include using acid-free tissue, packing tape, and business cards, as well as pre-wrapping lower-value items and opting for eco-friendly materials.

Key facts

  • A detailed checklist for wrapping artwork for immediate buyer pickup was published on RedDotBlog.
  • The guide is based on years of gallery retail experience and hundreds of transactions.
  • Recommended materials include clear plastic art bags, thin foam sheeting (1/8" thick), and Kraft/butcher paper.
  • For unframed prints, the process involves slipping artwork into a clear art bag and adding a sturdy backing board.
  • For framed works with glass, the steps are: wipe glass clean, check corners, optionally add acid-free tissue or foam, wrap in foam sheeting, and slip into a plastic art bag.
  • For framed works without glass (e.g., acrylic paintings), never apply plastic directly to fresh varnished surfaces; use foam sheeting to prevent friction.
  • Final touches include applying a branded sticker, attaching a business card, and offering care instructions.
  • The guide advises pre-wrapping lower-value items before a show and using eco-friendly materials.

Entities

Institutions

  • RedDotBlog

Sources