Preserving our Pieces - The Importance of Safe Packaging

There’s something magical about vintage posters. Whether it’s the bold colors, nostalgic designs, or the connection to a different era, these pieces of art are more than just paper; they’re memories captured in ink. However, if you want your collection to stand the test of time, knowing how to properly roll and pack these delicate treasures is essential. Here's your definitive guide to rolling and packing vintage posters safely in tubes.

The Importance of Proper Rolling

Vintage posters are often printed on paper that’s aged and delicate. Improper rolling can cause irreversible creases, cracks, or tears. Our goal is to maintain the integrity of the poster’s surface while keeping it compact for safe storage or transport.

Pro Tip: We use fresh cotton gloves when handling all posters at all times, we recommend at very least making sure your hands are clean and dry. Natural oils from your fingers can cause smudges or discoloration over time.

Choosing the Right Materials

The first step to successful poster packing is selecting the right materials. We use:

• Acid-Free Tissue Paper: This prevents the poster from sticking to itself and avoids acid-induced yellowing. We use 2 pieces of tissue paper then a third layer of our own branded paper. All 100% recycled and recyclable.
• A Sturdy Tube: Made from thick, durable cardboard. The tube should is slightly larger than the poster’s width when rolled to avoid tight packing, which can stress the paper.
• End Caps: To seal the tube securely.
• Bubble Wrap and padding: For extra protection during shipping.

Preparation

Lay the poster face down on a clean, flat surface. If the poster has any noticeable creases, gently smooth them out. Do not force the paper flat if it resists—this could cause damage.

If the poster has been stored flat for a long time, we allow it to acclimate for about 30 minutes before rolling. This helps to reduce resistance and potential cracking. We generally store all of our posters flat, away from light in conservation conditions to avoid this. 

Layering with Acid-Free Tissue Paper

We cut a piece of acid-free tissue paper that’s slightly larger than the poster. We then place it on top of the poster, ensuring that every part of the surface is covered. This protective layer is crucial for preventing direct contact between the poster and any surfaces it might rub against during rolling.

Rolling Technique

We start rolling from one end (preferably the shorter side) using a gentle and even pressure. Place a smaller piece of tissue paper or a soft fabric at the starting edge to help initiate the roll. Keep the roll loose enough to avoid any tension, which could cause the paper to crack, but tight enough to prevent it from unrolling inside the tube.

If the poster is large, we often roll it around a slightly smaller tube before placing it in the final tube. This double-layer protection can prevent accidental crushing, particularly on overseas shipments.

Inserting Into the Tube

Once rolled, we gently slide the poster into the tube. If there’s any extra space in the tube, we use some acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to fill it. This ensures that the poster won’t shift around during transport. It is important to remain careful not to force the poster into the tube, as this could cause it to snag or crease. We also include our packaging slip at this time along with the poster and our branded content. 

Securing the Tube

Seal the tube with the end caps, ensuring they are secure. If you’re shipping the poster, consider wrapping the tube in bubble wrap and placing it inside a larger box for additional protection.

We clearly label the tube with "Fragile" and "Do Not Bend" to alert handlers that the contents need careful handling.

Unrolling with Care

When you’re ready to unroll your poster, do so gently. Allow the poster to adjust to its new shape by letting it sit flat for a while in a safe environment. If needed, you can place weights on the corners (use acid-free tissue underneath) to help it flatten.

Storing Your Vintage Poster

If you’re not displaying your poster immediately, store it in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight, which can fade the colours. The storage tube should be placed horizontally, not standing up, to avoid any unnecessary pressure on the poster inside.

Protecting Your Investment

Your vintage poster collection is a window into the past, and with the right care, it can remain a vibrant part of your future. By following these steps to safely roll and pack your vintage posters, you’ll ensure they stay in pristine condition, ready to be admired for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, proper poster preservation is a must-have skill in your collector’s toolkit. Happy collecting, and remember, if we don't have what you are looking for in our inventory at the moment, you can always contact us and we can source any piece, any time!