There might be times where we will find ourselves between homes, studying abroad or even taking a sabbatical. Whatever the reason might be, we all will be storing valuable possessions at some point in our lives.
Today the choices are limitless, and we can still choose to store it with mum, keep it at a friend’s house or get a moving company to keep an eye on your stuff.
The safest and best option available today, is storing your prized possessions in a self storage locker. Not only can you access when you want, but you can reduce or increase the size of the locker on demand. And you’re unlikely to get penalised for reducing the term of your storage.
Now, if you’re planning on storing arts and crafts, please remember that some preparation might be necessary…
Your paintings must never be stored lying flat on top of one another. Make sure that the back of the frame is completely covered with brown paper. Cushion the corners with extra layers of paper or cardboard and bubble-wrap it. Store upright on a pallet – never directly on a floor.
Unframed canvasses should be rolled up loosely with the paint on the outside, preferably around a tube, covered with cotton fabric or layers of brown paper. Again, store upright. Do not carry the paintings by the top section of the frame. Use the string or grab it on the sides with both hands. Always store art away from direct light.
Paintings on canvas – oil and acrylic – are seldom behind glass. Some kind of board between them is advisable. Watercolours and ink or pencil drawings on paper are easily damaged by damp, direct light and insects and therefore need some extra care. Although the units are vermin free, you can, for your own peace of mind, add a few mothballs to the wrapping. It will take care of eggs or larvae that may already be behind the backing. If unframed, do not store in plastic bags unless covered with acid-free paper.
Here are a few key points to remember.
- Number your paintings and ornaments with a short description of each and keep the list, if only to assist your memory.
- Pack ornaments in sturdy boxes. Use enough packing material, paper or plastic foam chips.
- Cover sharp edges and add extra protection for fragile parts. Label the boxes – again, for your own convenience.
- Furniture should be protected against accidental knocks and scratches. Pay attention to delicate carvings, corners and edges.
- Wood that is not varnished can be treated with a commercial oil, suitable to the type of wood. Do not use any product that will turn sticky, e.g. linseed oil.
If you need more advice about storing your goods or getting packing material, then please do not hesitate to contact a facility manager here at E.J. Shaw Storage, and we will help you find the right solution for your storage needs.
E.J. Shaw Storage offers state of the art storage facilities with advanced security measures and excellent service. Located at 3-5 Rowe Street, Freshwater, NSW. Call us today at 1300 357 429, and we’ll get you into the space you need.
