Product Guide

How Artists and Photographers Protect Prints in the Post

Protect your artwork and photography prints in the post with the right packaging and technique.

4 min readUpdated April 2025

Choosing the right packaging

Board-backed envelopes: the standard for posting prints. 600gsm+ backing for maximum rigidity.
C4 for A4 prints, C3 for A3: standard sizes that fit prints with clearance
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Peel-and-seal closure: secure, clean, and professional
DO NOT BEND printed on exterior: prompts careful handling

Quick answer

Use a board-backed do not bend envelope (600gsm+), wrap the print in acid-free tissue or a cellophane sleeve, add a sheet of backing card, and seal with peel-and-seal. This three-layer approach (backing card, tissue wrap, rigid envelope) protects against bending, moisture, and surface scuffing. For valuable originals, consider double-boarding: card on both sides of the print inside the envelope.

Packing technique

Step-by-step packing0 / 5 checked

Place print in a cellophane sleeve or wrap in acid-free tissue paper
Add a sheet of backing card behind the print for extra rigidity
Slide into the board-backed envelope with the board side behind the print
Seal with the peel-and-seal strip, pressing firmly along the full length
Verify DO NOT BEND marking is visible on the front

Extra protection options

Essential for prints being posted in wet weather or international mail.

Standard tissue can transfer chemicals to prints over time. Acid-free is safer.

Card on both sides of the print inside the envelope provides maximum rigidity.

Small card triangles protect vulnerable corners from denting.

Size guide: sizing prints for envelopes or material guide.

Postage and sizing

A4 prints in C4 board-backed envelopes typically qualify for Royal Mail large letter if under 25mm thick and 750g. A3 prints in C3 envelopes exceed large letter dimensions and ship as small parcels. Check total thickness and weight before posting to avoid surcharges.

From ProcuraPack

Envelopes for artists

Board-backed envelopes sized for art prints and photographs from ProcuraPack.

Browse do not bend envelopes

Frequently asked questions

Board-backed do not bend envelope, 600gsm+ backing, in C4 (A4) or C3 (A3) size.

Yes, cellophane sleeve for moisture protection or acid-free tissue for surface protection.

Adding backing card on both sides of the print inside the envelope for maximum rigidity.

Usually yes, if total thickness stays under 25mm and weight under 750g.

Choose envelopes with it pre-printed, or stamp/write it clearly on the front.

Related articles

Sizing GuideMaterial GuideCase StudyPacking Guide

Part of our guide

Product Guide: Do Not Bend Envelopes

Expert guides on rigid mailers and board-backed envelopes for protecting documents, prints, and certificates.

Browse all guides →