When packing artworks that are delicate, have ornate frames, are particularly heavy, or are unusually shaped, best practice is to construct a T‑frame; a custom wooden tray into which the artwork is securely fixed. T‑frames facilitate safer handling, transport, and in some cases, storage.
Artworks are typically secured to the frame using screws or bolts at multiple points. Additional padding and structural supports can be introduced where required. A protective plastic layer is attached to the front of the artwork, and the entire T-frame is wrapped in polyethylene sheeting to safeguard the surface during handling and transit.
Within our collection, many of the artworks requiring T‑frames presented bespoke challenges, such as additional depth requirements or the need for internal supports. In response, we chose to fabricate the T‑frames in‑house, allowing the technician team to adapt quickly and address issues as they arose during the packing process.
The team developed and built a modular T‑frame design that could be adjusted and modified as needed. Birch plywood was selected for its rigidity, durability, and clean finish, making it well suited to this purpose.
