As any environmentalist will tell you, we have issues of overproduction and overconsumption in this world. To reduce their carbon footprint, more and more people are trying to live sustainably. Not throwing away things that can be repurposed is a great way to start. When you are in the process of moving, you might have the urge to buy a lot of art packing supplies to ensure that nothing happens to your precious items. But the thing is you most likely already have something you can use for artwork shipping at home. Did you know that there are some packing materials you can reuse?
Which Art Packing Supplies Are Reusable, and How to Do It Right?
Cardboard boxes
Some valid concerns surround the question of whether you can reuse cardboard boxes. In general, it is not advised, but every single situation has nuances. It is a bad idea to use a packing box that was dented, torn, or otherwise damaged before. But if you are packing something small and lightweight into a previously used yet durable box and taking it on an hour-long drive in your car, your item will probably survive that. Make sure to thoroughly inspect the box you are using and secure the corners and the bottom with packing tape.
Bubble wrap
Bubble wrap is one of the most commonly utilized materials for art packing, but recycling it is harder than some other types of wrapping. Fortunately, it can be reused, as far as the air bubbles that create the desired cushioning effect are intact. If you have already gotten the use out of your bubble wrap and are ready to part with it, pop all the bubbles before putting it in a recycling bin.
Acid-free paper
If you have ever shipped a painting or seen others do it, you know what acid-free paper is. It is a lifesaver for pieces that can get disturbed by oxygen or when coming in contact with other items. Acid-free paper is used to protect paintings from losing their colors and the paint from rubbing off. The amazing thing about this art packing material is that you can reuse it and that it will last you a very long time.
As it appears, not only reusing your packing materials is good for the environment, but it is also lighter on your pocket. We hope that this article will encourage you to adopt a more sustainable approach when preparing for your big move.