Application of glassine paper in artwork packaging

Glassine paper, with its unique texture, visual effect and practical performance, plays an important role in the field of art packaging. This material has both aesthetic and protective functions, and is widely used in the temporary encapsulation of various types of artwork, long-term storage, transport protection and display layout and other aspects.

  1. Temporary packaging and protection
    1. Sketches and Drawings Glassine paper is often used to encapsulate unframed drawings, sketches or prints due to its good oil resistance and acid-free properties. Artists can lay their finished work flat on the glassine paper and fold it over or gently secure it with acid-free tape to create a temporary and undamaged package of artwork. This type of encapsulation prevents fingerprints, grease or dust from getting on the surface of the artwork, while allowing it to be reviewed or displayed without obscuring the details of the image.
    2. Temporary Exhibition Labels and Information Cards In art exhibitions, glassine paper can be used to create temporary labels or information cards for exhibits. Text or images can be clearly printed on glassine paper and fixed near the artwork in a discreet manner, conveying the necessary information about the artwork without clashing with the artwork due to colour or texture, ensuring that the audience's attention is focused on the artwork itself.
  2. Long-term storage and archiving
    1. Archival folders and packaging Folders and bags made of glassine paper are ideal for archiving artworks. They protect artworks from environmental humidity changes, dust and light, while allowing the contents to be easily identified without having to open the packaging. For example, an artist's manuscripts, letters, certificates or other important documents can be stored securely in glassine paper-lined folders, allowing for easy access and avoiding direct contact, reducing the potential for physical damage.
    2. Scroll paintings and maps encapsulation For artworks in scroll form, such as traditional Chinese paintings or antique maps, glassine paper can be used as a protective material for both the inner and outer layers. Rolling up the artwork and wrapping it in a layer of glassine paper inside and outside can prevent the ends of the scroll from loosening and causing wear and tear to the image, and effectively block airborne contaminants to ensure that the artwork remains in good condition during long-term storage.
  3. Artwork transport
    1. Packaging liners and cushioning layers Glassine paper can be used as an internal barrier or cushioning material in the transport packaging of works of art. It can effectively reduce direct friction between the artwork and other rigid packaging materials (e.g. foam, corrugated cardboard) and provide additional cushioning to prevent scratches or creases caused by vibration or pressure during transport. Especially for fragile paper artwork or photography, the light texture of glassine paper provides a gentle contact surface that minimises the risk of physical damage.
    2. Customised Packaging Design For high-end art transport, glassine paper can be customised into special packaging configurations, such as folding inner boxes or drawer trays, to accommodate artworks of different shapes and sizes. This transparent packaging not only provides an intuitive visual experience during the opening and inspection of the box, but also ensures the safety and stability of the artwork during transport.
  4. Display arrangement
    1. Display case and frame backing On museum display cases or frame backing, glassine paper can be used as a barrier between the artwork and the display case or frame. It absorbs excess moisture, protects the back of the artwork from humidity, and helps maintain a stable microenvironment. In addition, the use of glassine paper avoids future removal difficulties caused by direct adhesion and protects the artwork from damage in its original state.
    2. Installations and Spatial Arrangements Glassine paper is often creatively incorporated into the design of installations or specific spatial arrangements due to its translucent visual effect. It can be used as a projection screen, space divider, lighting filter and other elements to add layers and a mysterious atmosphere to the work, while maintaining respect for the main body of the artwork and avoiding overpowering it.