If I need to move homes, how do I safely transport a heavy craft sculpture without chipping it?

Moving homes is stressful enough, but when you have a heavy craft sculpture—made of ceramic, stone, resin, or mixed media—the anxiety can double. One wrong bump and a delicate edge could chip. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a step-by-step, human-friendly guide to get your art from point A to point B in one piece.

First, gather your materials. You’ll need: soft microfiber cloths, acid-free tissue paper, several rolls of bubble wrap (wide and small-bubble), stretch wrap or shrink wrap, foam corner protectors or pool noodles cut to size, heavy-duty cardboard or corrugated plastic sheets, a sturdy moving blanket, and a hand truck or dolly with straps. Forget newspaper—the ink can stain.

Now, start with a gentle but thorough cleaning. Dust the sculpture using a soft brush or compressed air so grit doesn’t scratch the surface during packing. Then, wrap it in one layer of acid-free tissue paper or a clean, lint-free cloth to provide a non-abrasive barrier. Next comes bubble wrap. Use small-bubble wrap for intricate areas and wide-bubble for flat surfaces. Wrap loosely at first, then tighten gradually. Secure each layer with painter’s tape—never duct tape, which can damage the surface. For protruding parts like arms, antlers, or fins, cushion them with foam corner protectors or sliced pool noodles.

If the sculpture is truly heavy (say, over 30 pounds), you’ll want a custom crate. Build one from two layers of corrugated cardboard, or use a wooden crate if the weight is extreme. Inside, create a “nest” with foam blocks or packing peanuts in heavy-duty bags. The sculpture should not touch the sides of the crate—leave a 3- to 4-inch gap filled with cushioning. Use stretch wrap around the whole package to keep moisture out.

On moving day, lift with your legs, not your back—or better yet, use a dolly. Always keep the sculpture upright (same orientation as it stood in your home) to avoid internal stress. In the moving truck, position it on its own, not stacked. Wedge it between other soft items like upholstered furniture or mattress pads. If you must place it on a flat surface, use a rubber anti-slip mat underneath.

Drive carefully. Avoid sudden stops and sharp turns. When unloading, inspect immediately. If a tiny chip happens, a dab of art-grade epoxy can fix it—but if you follow this guide, you’re unlikely to need it. Your sculpture is more than decor—it’s a story. Keep it safe.