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How to Flatten Rolled Art

Cardboard tubes provide a convenient way to mail or store art, but the damage to the paper can be frustrating to resolve. The rolled paper expands inside the tube, which makes it difficult to remove. Once the art is taken from the tube, the curled paper needs to be flattened. The solution is as simple as placing heavy books on top of the paper. Art should be stored flat to avoid permanent damage to the paper.

Things You'll Need

  • Flat work surface
  • Heavy books
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare a clean and flat work surface. Make certain there is no grease, dust or dirt that can be transferred onto your print.

    • 2

      Insert your index finger into the center of the rolled art. Coax the paper to wind a little more tightly so that the roll of paper is smaller than the diameter of the tube. Slide the art out of the tube.

    • 3

      Place the art on your work surface with the curled edges facing up. Allow the paper to relax overnight. The room needs to be free of airborne dust or grease and low in humidity. High humidity will cause the paper to warp.

    • 4

      Place your art with the curled edges facing down on your work surface. Place books on top of the paper so the print is completely covered and lays flat. Use the heaviest books you have and make certain they are clean. Allow your art to sit overnight.

    • 5

      Remove the books and your art should be flat and ready to frame or store. If there is still substantial curl to the edges, repeat the last step. Add more weight to the books.

Fine Art

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