Wall print rolling is a simple and cost efficient way to prepare your paintings for shipping. By allowing the work to be shipped rolled rather than stretched, the artist saves on framing or mounting costs upon arrival. It also allows the customer to explore framing options without being limited by the dimensions of a specific frame.

In order to roll a work, the first step is to make sure that it is clean and flat with no dust or debris on the surface of the painting. Clear a space that is larger than the work, and lay out some smooth, archival paper (at Agora we use glassine) that is a couple of inches thicker than the thickness of your works. This will act as a buffer between the work and the outside of the tube, and protect it from any chemicals that might be released by the tube’s inner coating.

Rolling Out Style: The Contemporary Appeal of Wall Print Rolling

Once the archival paper is laid out, begin to roll up the work with the paint side facing down onto the archival paper. It is important to use a light touch here, as the work can easily be damaged if it is rolled too tightly. Light materials with light media can be rolled more tightly than heavy materials on thick grounds, and impasto on canvas should be rolled more loosely than an acrylic wash on linen.

Once the print is rolled, weigh each corner for 24 hours. This will help prevent the print from sagging and will allow the corners to tighten up enough for the frame to hold the print. A heavy book, a piece of metal or a paperweight will work well.