How to Ship a OOAK Fine Art Doll

Recently someone asked how I ship my OOAK dolls and I thought I would share it with you after realizing there is not much information on this subject floating about the inter-webs.

So here we go
How to Ship a Fine Art Doll by Catherine Carr
(PLEASE NOTE: I am NOT a shipping expert, this is just what has worked for me.)

When I ship art dolls, I usually get or make a box close to the same size as the doll. Then I stand it up in the box and look to see where it will need support when it is being tossed about in the post. Support every thing. I bubble wrap and stuff paper so nothing will be jostled.

I add extra bubble pack or paper to my box where the doll needed to be supported.

I tape this box shut and mark instructions on it on how it should be opened.
(***If you are shipping somewhere rainy or snowy you might want to cover this smaller box in plastic just on the off chance it is exposed to the elements.***)
Then I get a box that the smaller box can fit into while having at least 3-5 inches of space all the way around it.

This "free space" is filled with packing peanuts or paper so that the smaller box never touches the larger box.

Give it a little shake,
give it another shake,
nothing should be moving.
EVER.

Art Dolls are delicate, postal employees... not so much.

Tape your box shut. Tape all edges.
Mark the box "This side up", "Fragile" and "Handle with Care" then off to post. I don't care for UPS I believe they are too rough on my packages.  

Always insure! You have put in too much time and money into your One of A Kind Art Doll, if something arrives broken you want to have that insurance.

(***If the piece is exceptionally fragile or if you are fearful to ship, use a art handler, they are expensive but worth it!***)

I hope this helps, feel free to comment with your art / doll packaging tricks.
Cathy :)
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What the heck is OOAK? ONE OF A KIND
What's a Art Doll? You can see some of my Art Dolls here
and even more info at the National Institute of American Doll Artists

How to Ship a OOAK Fine Art Doll