Newbie...how to store prints

soleblazer · Sat Apr 07, 2012 1:32 pm

Hi everyone.

I have a question on print storage. I have some of my stuff framed, normally get the uv glass,etc. But I have been keeping my unframed stuff in tubes which I am finding out is not good. How does everyone store there prints? I have no drawers big enough to lay flat...is there a special kind of plastic bag to insert them into, etc? Thanks, I know this is a basic question, but I appreciate it.

jamesmassey1988 · Sat Apr 07, 2012 1:40 pm

I use an A1 portfolio with acid free sleeves.

For anything larger, two bit sheets of acid-free foamcore, with tissue separating each print.

A lot of people here are fans of the Picturesque Presentation Case 24×36

But i've not experienced one because shipping one to the UK is extortionate. Hope that helps.

soleblazer · Sat Apr 07, 2012 1:44 pm

Question, so I would take the poster out of the tubes, lay them flat somewhere, and once flat, slide into the sleeves?

I keep hearing about putting the poster between foamboard, but can someone explain that process to me, why foamboard vs just laying it flat on a table and putting books on top of it. (I am a newbie so please be gentle..trying to learn to do this the right way...)

Also, what is the advantage of one of these file drawers? How would that process work.

phips · Sat Apr 07, 2012 1:47 pm

]I know this might not be the right place to ask this but.....

I bought a g88 print online and picked it up in store and the print comes in a mylar sleeve with
a cardboard backing..g88's standard packaging for in store pick ups. is it bad to leave the cardboard
in there with the print for a period of time? isnt there acid in the cardboard or something?

thanks

misterwhisper · Sat Apr 07, 2012 2:03 pm

Yes, remove the cardboard, unless you know for sure that it's acid-free and archival.

Your print will only unroll so much, and very slowly, and be constantly exposed to light and household hazards, if you just let it sit out and unroll. Just sandwich it between archival foamboard and weigh it down with books to flatten.

File drawers (flat files) provide the best protection because they are big, strong, and lockable. They also keep your collection easy to sort. However, because of their bulk, many people (like me) don't have the space for them.

I use these
http://www.dickblick.com/products/blick ... age-boxes/
along with archival sleeves like
http://www.dickblick.com/products/prat- ... rotectors/
and you can also find plenty of choices here
http://www.bagsunlimited.com/c-433-prints-poster.aspx

soleblazer · Sat Apr 07, 2012 2:48 pm

Thank you. If you use a flat file, do you still put them in sleves with backing, or can you just lay the posters on top of each other?

skinkrawl · Sat Apr 07, 2012 6:43 pm

I'll throw out a question, as I'm looking at some flat files. Any preference for metal or wood? If so, why? Anything to look out for when buying?

iambillyg · Sat Apr 07, 2012 7:57 pm

Regarding flattening: Go to Hobby Lobby or your local crafts store. Purchase pieces of ACID FREE foamcore. When you get home, lay your prints on one piece and then lay the other piece over. This will protect them (for the most part) and help them lay flat. You can also purchase poster weights (like what are sold at the link in my sig) Please use me as a referral

Depending on how long your prints have been stored in tubes, the wait to flatten them will vary. You can also lay books on the pieces of foamcore to add weight. Some people opt to purchase a piece of cheap wood from Home Depot or something for much more weight.

Regarding storing: Many people who don't have the funds or space for a flat file choose to store their prints between foamcore like above but under their bed. This helps to avoid pieces from being stepped on. You can also store them in a portfolio. I recommend ITOYA.

I just recently got my flat file in my apartment and got my first shipment of bags. I placed my print inside bags (1 print per bag) and then layed them in my file. I have about 6 stacked on top of one another. I got my bags here: http://www.framedestination.com/bags/pr ... em/BGPRBA/ Very affordable, and extremely fast shipping.

Here's how the prints look in mine:

IMG_0778.JPG

And as far as wood or metal flat files, I think that is really just up to personal preference. They're both going to weigh a ton. There may be a cost difference between them. But your best bet is to search Craigslist routinely and jump when you have one that you like. I would make sure you measure and know what you can handle. I've purchased one that was way too big and was then stuck trying to find someone to buy it.

Also, make sure each drawer comes out smooth and isn't missing components. Sometimes they will look nice from the outside, but have hidden issues.

Good luck and welcome. Feel free to PM if you have questions.

adamrworsell · Sat Apr 07, 2012 8:05 pm

I'm looking in to picking one of these up. Firstly what should the inside be covered with, bare wood/metal of the file or something like felt? Secondly any recommendations on rejuvenating these to freshen them up? finally until bags have been purchased surely layering my prints between tissue should suffice?

iambillyg · Sat Apr 07, 2012 8:18 pm

If you're storing your prints in bags once you get the file, you wouldn't need anything on the inside due to them being protected by being in the bags. However, I have a thin piece of poster board as a bottom on each of my drawers (because my drawers have holes cut in them for air and I don't want corners to be caught.

I just painted my metal file. I sanded it down, and then painted 1 layer of primer, then a few layers of paint. This thread may have some helpful infor for you though, as those look to be wood -- http://forum.expressobeans.com/viewtopi ... =3&t=68347

And layering between tissue should be fine, as long as they're layed in an area that isnt accident-prone.

soleblazer · Sun Apr 08, 2012 12:26 am

billy, your post on the flat file was most helpful. I appreciate everyones posts here, I love this place.

Whiteboy · Sat Apr 14, 2012 2:10 pm

I must get round to doing my collection, I hate knowing that most of them are still in the tubes and have been for over 2 years. Do you think they will ok?

Thanks for tips.

ksn · Sat Apr 14, 2012 2:19 pm

Anyone have any experience with these?

http://www.jerrysartarama.com/discount- ... ectors.htm

Seems like they might provide more protection than http://www.dickblick.com/products/prat- ... rotectors/

suchanoo · Sat Apr 14, 2012 4:02 pm

skinkrawl wrote:I'll throw out a question, as I'm looking at some flat files. Any preference for metal or wood? If so, why? Anything to look out for when buying?

I have 2 wooden flat files. Even though I keep all my prints in Mylar sleeves, I line the bottom of every drawer with buffered mountboard, edge to edge. Maybe overkill, but for a few quid extra, I think it's worth it. Metal is better for storage without any sleeves, but wood looks better IMO - if your prints are well protected and separated from the drawer surfaces, and you haven't used any nasty varnishes on the wood, it doesn't make any difference, I don't think.

skis007 · Sat Apr 14, 2012 4:11 pm

ksn wrote:Anyone have any experience with these?

http://www.jerrysartarama.com/discount- ... ectors.htm

Seems like they might provide more protection than http://www.dickblick.com/products/prat- ... rotectors/

I purchased a set of 6, 30" x 40":
http://www.dickblick.com/products/alvin ... rotectors/

I don't have a flat file so have my print in a print rack. These Alvin print protectors are pretty awesome; double sided, archival, nylon edges. The only objection I have is the thin back board; I've purchased thicker backboard from BagsUnlimited so I'm used to the sturdy stuff. If you're going to have in laying flat in a box, I don't see how that would be a problem.