Hi guys -- I saw a similar thread, but didn't want to hijack it with my question. Anyway, along with my original paintings, I have 24x36 inch prints for sale. Maybe in other areas it's different, but I know in Texas the spring shows tend to be windy, and so i'm imagining a customer carrying a huge print through the crowds with windy conditions could end up with a damaged print.
I know I've had a few close calls struggling with large prints in a double thick cardboard porfolio. So my solution was to buy heavy cardboard mailing tubes. In bulk, they are not that expensive, and they would keep the prints totally safe on their journey.
My idea was I would have the 16x20 prints on display (smaller, so not an issue) and then have a sign on the bin showing I also have larger prints available for X dollars. I would have a certain numbers of large prints on hand, already in the tubes. Further, if someone wanted to see the larger size, I could have one on hand, or if they wanted to check the print in the tube, they could do so.
So i'm wondering what you guys think of this, or if you've had experience with larger prints being a burden in windy conditions. I have only done two shows thus far, so I am just ironing out my strategies... Thanks much.
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Repurposed Materials Inc . COM has an online auction now for extra heavy cardboard tubes. Save some money!
Or simply take an order and ship it when you get home. Tell them it is safer and less likely to be damaged. Mailing wont be but a few dollars.
An alternative might be to surface mount (float) the prints on acid free mat board and either bag or shrink wrap them (if you use shrink wrap, a cardboard stiffener might be necessary). This will meet the presentation standards for most shows, and yields a much better look so customers can see the whole image at the full scale. Most customers like the appearance, and will pay a little extra for this style of packaging vs tubes, which I have found will often draw negative attention (as one promoter and gallery operator told me, "Art doesn't come in tubes". I don't agree with this sentiment, but it IS out there, and not uncommon).
Some shows require that you display and sell prints matted or framed -- I'd check the individual show requirements before committing to bringing rolled prints to a show. If you pre-bag the prints with a stiff cardboard backing it shouldn't be a huge issue to get it out of the show.
Some shows have pickup stations too.
That said, you can always mail the rolled print to the customer after the show without breaking any rules.