Properly packing picture frames with glass is crucial to prevent damage during moving or storage. The key steps involve protecting the glass and cushioning the frame.
Here's a straightforward guide on how to pack your glass picture frames effectively:
Essential Supplies
Before you start packing, gather the necessary materials:
- Packing paper or bubble wrap
- Packing tape
- Cardboard sheets or foam core
- Picture frame boxes or sturdy moving boxes
- Markers
Step-by-Step Packing Process
Follow these steps to secure your picture frames with glass:
- Prepare the Glass: Protect the glass surface. As recommended in the reference "Protect and Wrap", on a flat surface, place a sheet of packing paper that's two times the size of the frame. Put your mirror or picture in the center of the paper. Using packing tape, place an “X” on the glass of the mirror or frame. This will help keep the glass from shattering everywhere if it breaks.
- Wrap the Frame: Once the glass is taped, wrap the entire frame securely.
- For smaller frames, use multiple layers of packing paper or a single layer of bubble wrap.
- For larger frames, use bubble wrap, focusing on protecting the corners.
- Secure the wrapping with packing tape.
- Add Corner Protection: The corners are vulnerable. Use cardboard corners specifically designed for frames or make your own using folded cardboard secured with tape.
- Provide Additional Padding: Cut pieces of cardboard or foam core to the size of the frame's glass and back. Place these on both sides of the wrapped frame for added rigidity and protection against punctures. Secure these layers with tape.
- Select the Right Box:
- Use specialized picture frame or mirror boxes for best fit and protection, especially for larger items.
- For smaller frames, use sturdy moving boxes. Ensure the frame fits snugly but isn't forced.
- Cushion the Box: Line the bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper, bubble wrap, or foam peanuts.
- Place the Frame: Carefully place the wrapped and padded frame inside the box. For multiple frames in one box (if space allows), place cardboard dividers between them to prevent contact.
- Fill Empty Space: Fill any remaining gaps in the box with crumpled packing paper or other cushioning material to prevent movement during transit. The box should be full but not bulging.
- Seal and Label: Close the box and seal all seams securely with packing tape. Clearly label the box as "FRAGILE," indicating it contains glass, and mark which side is up.
Summary Table: Packing Essentials
| Step | Action | Material Examples | Importance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass Prep | Apply tape "X" on glass | Packing tape | Prevents scattering if broken |
| Wrap Frame | Wrap entire frame | Packing paper, bubble wrap | Protects frame & surface |
| Corner Guard | Protect corners | Cardboard corners | Protects most vulnerable points |
| Padding | Add rigidity and puncture protection | Cardboard, foam core | Extra layer of defense |
| Box Selection | Use appropriate box | Frame box, sturdy moving box | Proper fit and structure |
| Cushioning | Line box and fill gaps | Paper, bubble wrap, peanuts | Absorbs shock, prevents shift |
| Label | Mark box as fragile and indicate contents | Marker, "FRAGILE" sticker | Alerts handlers |
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your picture frames with glass being damaged during your move.
