Tissue puffs are a quick and flexible method of packing objects.

They can be used to pack small and medium-sized objects in a rigid container. Tissue puffs are simple and easy to make, and can be reused making them one of the most affordable packing methods.

In the video below Collections Technician Maddy Moore demonstrates how to make and use them.

Case study: Delicate ceramics

Useful as they are, tissue puffs aren’t always appropriate as in the case of these two ceramics with friable detailing on their outer surface.  

Despite their limited density, tissue puffs will still exert some degree of pressure onto the object and if the surface of the object is not stable enough (as in this case) tissue puffs aren’t appropriate.   

Instead, a bespoke container was made, holding the ceramics stable at the top and bottom avoiding contact with the ornate detailing and delicate surfaces around the middle.  

Alternatives to tissue puffs

An alternative to tissue puffs are Tyvek cushions (cushions created from Tyvek case filled with polystyrene padding).

These can be used in much the same way as tissue puffs but are more rigid and can be created in a range of sizes and shapes.

They are more expensive to produce but have a longer lifespan. 

This blog from The Still Room provides detailed instructions on how to create them.