I currently use clear bags on all my cards and loose matted prints. I thought I saw a post where someone mentioned that Stretch Wrap is better as well as less expensive. The only concern I would have is "breathability". Does anyone have experience with both?
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I use a Clearmount Shrink Wrapper and have for 20 years. I've had to replace the wire on the sealing wand once, but I bought this equipment used from a frame shop going out of business so it had some mileage already on it. Mine is a 40 inch model and you can see what it looks like on Clearmount's website. I use centerfold shrink film that I buy from my matting and framing supplier, Montana Moulding. I don't think the shrink film I get is Clearmount's product. I've never had moisture problems whatsoever with shrink wrap and as far as how professional it looks, I think it's better than the sleeves. It's especially useful for displaying artwork in non-standard sizes. The bags are all standard sizes only. This Clearmount system isn't the same type mentioned by C.C Barton. That was a really goofy product, fer sher.
HERE'S THE LINK.
The bags may be all standard sizes, but you can fold them over further and seal them if only one dimension fits. Also, you can seal the bags at smaller sizes with a shrink wrap wand.
Larry Berman
Thanks Barrie, I just now saw this post, because I'm looking for information to protect my artwork better at the beach. I live in the high desert, California, and will be in Morro Bay, on the ocean, in two weeks. Sounds like your method and source may be something for me to consider. Thanks!
And clear bags have so many different "standard" sizes, that it's pretty easy to find a size that will work with your work.
I've used both. I started out my career with shrink wrap and a warm iron, and was greatly relieved many years ago when I was first introduced to clear bags. I wouldn't go back to the shrink wrap for anything. The clear bags give your work a more professional look, hands down. If they're in the bin too long and get handled too much or dirty, just change them out!
Thanks!!
This is a timely thread for me to find today -- because I'm ready to start adding some matted pieces to my booth. I don't know the best source to purchase the clear bags -- so I thought I'd just ask here, since there was perfect timing in me finding this discussion.
ClearBags.com is the main source.
FrameDestination.com sells smaller quantities at a slightly better discount.
You can get them other places, too.
Uline is a good source for many packaging items.
United Manufacturers sells just about anything you might need for framing.
For cards and matted prints, Clear Bags are the way to go nowadays. I would not use stretch wrap (that's for packing and moving stuff)... maybe you meant shrink wrap (uses a heat sealer and rolls of wrap).
One advantage of clear bags is that they do not require a machine to heat and seal the edges of the package. If you're at a show and need to replace a bag because someone spilled ice cream on it, you can do it quickly.
Shrink wrap and clear bags will both start to look mangy after sitting in bin for a while and being handled by lots of grubby fingers. Clear bags are easier to remove and replace, if necessary. Pull the flap, pull the print, replace the bag. If you're standardized on your sizes, keeping the proper size clear bag in stock is not really an issue. If your sizes are all over the lot, shrink wrap is more efficient in use of supplies, but less portable.
Thank you, Jim, I do also use Clear Bags and just wondered if the stretch wrap worked or not. I will give it a try if it's not too big an investment. I don't think I want to do the shrink wrap, that uses heat.
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