Preservation: Conservation Materials

Book Maintenance Materials

	Acid-Free Boxboard
	Archival Papers & Films
	Corrugated Board
	Ethafoam/Polyethylene Foam
	Japanese & Marbled Papers
	Polyester Sheets & Rolls

Cleaning Materials

	Cleaning Swabs, 36-Piece Kit Each Cleaning Swab Kit contains 36 swabs, including 6 each of six different styles of various widths and lengths. Each swab consists of a white polypropylene handle with a white polyurethane foam head. Price per package of 36.
	Conservation Tack Mats Rely on Tack Mats to prevent contaminates from invading conservation labs, archives and clean rooms from soiled cart wheels and foot wear. Each 40 sheet Tack Mat features 1.5mm low density, clear polyethylene sheets containing anti-microbial agents in the adhesive ... read more
	Document Cleaning Pad Lineco's Document Cleaning Pads are recommended for cleaning dusty, dirty, or moldy paper items. These pads contain a soft, grit-free powder that absorbs and cleans surface dirt from paper. Price each. Additional cleaning powder also available in a two pound ... read more
	Dry Cleaning Sponges Made of vulcanized natural rubber, our dry cleaning sponges will effectively remove soot and smoke damage form wallpaper, painted metal and wood surfaces, fabrics and a variety of additional surfaces. Widely used for clean-up following fire damage, the cleaning applications ... read more
	Dust-Off Plus A clean, moisture-free controlled flow of canned air that quickly removes dust, dirt, lint and repair debris from valuable documents, photographs and equipment. The new vector valve moves up and down 180 degrees and sweeps 360 degrees allowing pinpoint accuracy ... read more

Conservation Tools

	Luxo Lighted Magnifiers The finest industrial grade magnifier lamps made, with the magnification power that's wanted and the illumination that's needed. Features the Luxo's patented K-arm with perfect balancing, internal spring system. Die-cast metal shade houses removable 3 or 5 diopter lens. Optional ... read more
	Porta-Trace Light Box Table Units Solid oak trim mounted on sturdy baked white enamel legs makes this newest addition to the Porta-Trace line attractive in any decor. Features a 4-tilt adjustment from 0 to 40 degrees. Easily assembled with 14 bolts. Two sizes are offered, ... read more
	Binocular Magnifier This Binocular Magnifier is for precision work and is worn on the head to leave both hands free. Precision ground and polished prismatic lenses. Adjustable headband may be worn over glasses. Three interchangeable lenses for 6" (2.6 magnification), 8" (2.2 ... read more
	Acrylic Press Boards These inert, clear, 0.5" thick acrylic sheets have smoothed edges and corners. A variety of stock sizes are offered.
	Benchmark Miniature Drill Bits You will need to drill holes for your pins if you are pinning into materials such as plywood, Masonite, laminate or Plexiglas. We offer two sizes of drill bits for each diameter of our pins. The ''drop fit'' bits are ... read more
	Berna Multi Clamps This unique clamping tool can be used with one hand to set delicate objects without risk of damage. A pair of clear, 4" polycarbonate "jaws" are attached to a highly rigid carbon fiber composite rod. The soft, heat resistant, silicone ... read more
	Bone Clasps/Lid Pins The art of Japanese bookbinding challenges the imagination and creative talents of the craftsperson. Bone clasps are useful to add the finishing touch to this process. Four sizes are offered. Price per dozen of the same size.
	Book Press with Brass Edges This versatile press is a must for all bookbinding work. Used by both the professional and the hobbyist it combines the features of a backing press, finishing press, standing press and brass-edged boards. Two vertical edges reinforced with brass strip.The ... read more
	Book Suction Table This compact Book Suction Table is manufactured from stainless steel to withstand very high vacuum pressure which is especially useful when cleaning a small area with the rest of the platen masked off. The working surface is approximately 15" x ... read more
	Checktemp Checktemp is destined to make glass thermometers obsolete. Glass thermometers are hazardous to the user and the environment. The glass contains lead and the measurement media is either mercury or alcohol. Checktemp is an all-in-one unit that combines aprobe and ... read more
	Conservation Work Trays Quality, heavy weight, high impact polyethylene plastic trays for a variety of conservation uses. Excellent for bleaching or deacidification by immersion. These trays are solid white, seamless, and possess a corrosion resistant surface. The handy pouring corner is useful for ... read more
	Digital Psychrometer Introducing a new digital precision temperature and humidity instrument which features high accuracy and fast response. This hand-held unit requires no twirling or reading of charts and includes a handy pocket clip. Features include data hold, an F/C switch, min/max ... read more
	Drying Rack This all-steel rack includes a heavy-duty angle base, exclusive tray-lock system for supporting trays in up position, and 2 rubber spacers on each tray. Very sturdy and maintenance free, the rack consists of 40 trays and measures 45.5" H with ... read more
	Dusting Brushes Four styles of dusting brushes are yours for the choosing. The Comfort Curve model has a curved handle 15.5'' long that holds sterilized mixed horsehair in a single row of tufts to provide a stiff brushing action. The traditional dusting ... read more
	Humidity Indicator Certified Hygrometer Get relative humidity and temperature reading at a glance. This hygrometer is certified to be accurate within +/- 3% and indicates the complete range of 0 to 100% humidity. The bimetallic thermometer is accurate to 105 of scale and has ... read more
	Hygrocheck Relative Humidity Tester Hygrocheck uses the advanced Thin Film Polymer Capacitance sensing method to measure humidity and an integrated electronic circuit to perform all relative conversions. A complete measurement range of 10% to 90% RH and 3% accuracy across the entire range,make Hygrocheck ... read more
	Japanese Horsehair Strainer An ideal tool used to strain paste after cooking, especially following storage and re-cooking. Removes any lumps or foreign matter creating a smooth, consistent paste. Manufactured from top quality natural materials. Horsehair mesh, 8'' diameter.
	Jumbo Display Thermo-Hygrometer The large, easy-to-read digital display makes all the difference. Each unit features a F/C switch and min/max memory. Temperature range is 14 tp 122 degrees Fahrenheit with a humidity range of 10% to 99% (+/- 5%). Powered by one AAA ... read more
	Microcomputer pH Meter This portable pH Meter utilizes an advanced microprocessor to perform pH, ORP, ISE and temperature measurements with high accuracy and fast response. The mV measurements automatically switch from 0.1 to 1 mV resolution when the reading reaches 400mV. Temperature effects ... read more
	Paper and Book Press STANDARD: Classic design delivers even controllable pressure for paper and books up to 10'' x 12'' with 6" of daylight between the press floor and platen. Papermakers can make paper with a professional finish. Paper dried slowly under pressure delivers ... read more
	Staple Extractor A specialized conservation tool used for extracting wire staples from paper, pamphlets, or magazines preparatory for sewing. Tapered blade and dull edge will not mar the paper as will other types of staple pullers. Smooth wooden handle. Price each.
	Teflon Bone Folders This new style of ''bone'' folder is manufactured from Teflon. Available in two sizes, each T-Bone Folder features a hard pointed end for creasing and flat, tapered end for burnishing. The smooth Teflon surface provides a new dimension not previously ... read more
	Brushes
	Gloves
	Hand Tools
	Weights

Deacidification Solutions & Equipment

	Bookkeeper Deacidification Spray Neutralize acidic paper with Bookkeeper Deacidification spray. Magnesium Oxide is the neutralizing agent in Bookkeeper which permanently ''fixes'' in the cellulosic fibers and on the paper's surface. Bookkeeper uses only non-toxic and non-hazardous materials and dries odor-free on treated ... read more
	Buffering Solutions 230 ml Prepared with analytical grade chemicals under the stringent ISO 9002 regulations.
	ColorpHast Indicator Strips Non-bleeding ColorpHast pH Indicator Strips are easy to use. Distinctions between pH levels are facilitated by sharp contrasts between adjacent color squares. A matched colored scale is provided for each pH measurement. Strips are accurate to 0.5 pH limits. Excellent ... read more
	Conservation Work Trays Quality, heavy weight, high impact polyethylene plastic trays for a variety of conservation uses. Excellent for bleaching or deacidification by immersion. These trays are solid white, seamless, and possess a corrosion resistant surface. The handy pouring corner is useful for ... read more
	Humidity Control Cassettes These humidity control cassettes are constructed from perforated stainless steel. designed to hold Art-Sorb and various brands of silica gel beads. Keeps beads away from works of art and provides easy access for reconditioning. The high quality humidity cassettes are ... read more
	Materials Testing Kit Environmental acids are a danger to any collection. This kit provides information and supplies to aid in the testing of construction materials. The Materials Testing Kit includes 24 glass jars, acid detection strips, tweezers, silver coupons, lead coupons, aluminum foil, ... read more
	PaperSaver Deacidification Solution PaperSaver is an easy-to-use system that provides a major advancement in value, effectiveness, and safety for paper preservation through deacidification. The PaperSaver formula is a spray whose active ingredients, when sprayed on normal weight papers,neutralizes acids immediately and for ... read more
	Quicksilver The internationally patented Quicksilver method is the most advanced system available for cleaning sterling and silver plate. A 12'' x 12'' perforated electrolytic alloy metal grid creates a very controlled, low intensity magnetic field which is just strong enough to ... read more
	Stainless Steel Conservation Work Trays Heavy duty, 22 gauge, stainless steel work trays are corrosion resistant and feature a seamless, curved corner design. Unlimited uses in the conservation lab. Price each.

Other Materials

	100% white cotton rag pulp Pre-shredded and blender friendly. Made from 100% white cotton rag pulp. 8 oz.
	Acid-Free Dust Jacket Protectors A specially made Dust Jacket Protector for museums and archives, University Products' style "A" Dura-Clear Dust Jacket Protectors are made of a 1.5" mil inert polyester and acid-free backing paper with an acid-free adhesive. These popular Dust Jacket Protectors, manufactured ... read more
	Adjustable Rare Book Storage Box Create your own storage boxes for your valuable rare books and documents with these acid-free 20 point boards. These soil-resistant cream color boards are scored every 0.25'' for easy folding and are available in a wide range of sizes. Enclosure ... read more
	Beeswax Beeswax is the traditional material used by conservators and book binders for waxing thread to make difficult sewing jobs easier to accomplish. Sold in 1 oz. blocks.
	Binder's Thread A natural color # 10 cotton binding thread specifically made for heavy duty book repairs. Available in 1500 yard spools. Price each.
	Binding Tape Genuine linen tape is closely woven for strength; 0.375" width accommodates most popular size books.
	Binding Thread Strong genuine Irish linen thread. For hand sewing. Expands with moisture to prevent tears in paper.
	Book Deodorizer 16 oz. The perfect solution to a smelly problem. These treated granules absorb moisture and odors. Use to treat books, paper, clothing or other inanimate objects. It will remove cigarette smoke, mildew odors and general mustiness. These granules are an inert and ... read more
	Book Plates Book Plates offer an excellent means of recognizing patrons' generosity as well as identifying special collections. Available in styles A or B. Printed in black ink on white gummed paper. They are made of acid-free white 20# Perma/Dur paper with ... read more
	Book Repair Kit A first of its kind, do-it-yourself repair kit for hardbound and paperback books which celebrates the practice and process of preserving and repairing books. Access for the first time to the tools, papers, repair tapes and other archival materials used ... read more
	Book Repair Tape Both the 1" and 2" tapes are used to hinge covers, reinforce pamphlets, repair covers and loose pages. They use a strong, acid-free linen fabric coated with neutral pH adhesive. While the repair is permanent the tape may be removed ... read more
	Book Repair Wings Book Repair Wings offer an inexpensive means of reinforcing book spines and corners. One size fits most books and no measuring or cutting is needed. Book Repair Wings are made of the same long lasting cloth material as our cloth ... read more
	Bookbinders' Needles Sized to accommodate sturdy bookbinding threads, these needles have a length that is easy to handle and a slightly blunted point to reduce paper snags. Manufactured from the finest grade steel. Price per package.
	Bookbinding Instruction Video - Binding an Early 19th Century Book in Period-Style Leather In this Bookbinders Workshop Instructional Series, Mr. Michael Chrisman demonstrates the complete and historically correct rebinding of an early 19th Century book in period-style leather. He begins with a book that is lacking its entire binding and which needs to ... read more
	Bookbinding Instruction Video - Re-backing and Restoration of an Early 18th Century Binding In this Bookbinders Workshop Instructional Series, Mr. Michael Chrisman demonstrates the complete and historically correct re-backing and restoration of an early 18th century book, London, 1728. The project begins with the cover boards detached, paste-downs that had floated off over ... read more
	Bookbinding Instruction Video - Tips From the Bookbinders Bench In this Bookbinders Workshop Instructional Series, Mr. Michael Chrisman teaches many tips from his book restoration bench that will greatly aid both the practicing and beginning bookbinder and book restorer. This DVD includes tips that will beautifully enhance any book ... read more
	Bookboard Punch This heavy-duty alloy steel punch has a hardened cutting edge which is used to punch holes in bookboard for binding with ribbon. Creates a clean 0,25'' diameter hole. Price each.
	Cellugel This effective consolidant for deterioration, powdery leather was developed by professional book conservators. Cellugel is essentially a mixture of hydroxpropyl cellulose and isopropanol. Cellulose ethers have been used by book and paper conservators for years for the purpose of sizing ... read more
	Cellulose Gum (SCMC) In a 2 - 4% solution, this SCMC is used for a variety of conservation applications including as an adhesive, poultice, consolidant, and cleansing agent, as well as in the creation of art or decorative objects, just to name a ... read more
	Cleaning Swabs, 36-Piece Kit Each Cleaning Swab Kit contains 36 swabs, including 6 each of six different styles of various widths and lengths. Each swab consists of a white polypropylene handle with a white polyurethane foam head. Price per package of 36.
	Color Mount Permanent Dry Mounting Tissue A dry mounting adhesive developed to permanently bond RC photos and slick posters as well as regular papers. Color Mount offers great versatility and low temperature convenience (185-205 degrees F). Its ''breathability'' makes is ideal for both non-porous and high-moisture ... read more
	Cotton Book Tape This sturdy web cotton twill tape is used for sewing signatures together on the sewing frame; also useful for tying. Easier to use than the stiffer linen tapes. Price each.
	Covering Materials NEW Our faux leather coverings feel and look like real leather; soft and supple, while the metallic sheets have a very modern look. The ostrich features a delicate embossing and the pure white has a light gloss finish. All these materials ... read more
	Disposable Glue Brushes Designed for bookbinding and adhesive applications, the dense natural bristles load and carry lots of glue and spread glue evenly over large surfaces. Metal free construction will not rust.
	Dry Mounting Press These presses are simple to operate when you are dry mounting, laminating, or backing prints, photos, posters, maps, charts or any frequently handled item which you would like to protect and preserve. They are durable and allow maximum pressure ... read more
	DRY-LAM Colortac Removable Breathable Dry Mount Tissue DRY-LAM Dry Mount Tissue is an excellent general purpose tissue that works well with RC or Fiber based prints. The new formulation is developed for maximum versatility. It has a very low activating temperature of 165 degrees F for use ... read more
	E-Flute Corrugated Rare Book Boxes Quick and easy, this E-Flute corrugated is strong and offers maximum support for fragile books or books in parts. Simply measure height and width then mark the board and score with a scoring wheel (included). Each package contains 5 sheets ... read more
	Economical Glue Brushes We've added an extensive line of quality, economical glue brushes. Two styles are available. The 80% bore bristle/20% synthetic bristle brushes are soft and pliable, with ergonomically designed handles. They are easy to clean, and good for glue or paste. ... read more
	European Bookcloth Strong, close-weave European cloth is backed with acid-free paper for easy application. A variety of color options are available. Choose the size and quantity that's right for you.
	Extra-Heavy Duty Awl A wooden ball handle fits the hand comfortably for heavy duty punching while providing good control. Price each.
	Fiskars Book Drill An ergonomically designed handle fits securely and comfortably in the palm of your hand for prolonged use without fatigue. This hand drill is especially handy for use with the fine drill bits used in bookbinding. Includes easily interchangeable drill bits, ... read more
	Fusion 4000 Plus Fusion 4000 is an adhesive (.003 thick) that has a completely neutral pH balance. The thermoplastic adhesive melts in the heating process, becomes transparent and adheres rapidly. Low temperature (160 degrees F) Fusion 4000 is formulated for general mounting applications ... read more
	Genuine Bone Folders This selection of genuine bone folders offers a variety of different design elements that increase the versatility of the tool while providing additional comfort to the user. These shape of the 005-905B was inspired by the sewing and quilting craft ... read more
	Glaze Padding Compound Make your own pads, forms, etc. with our easy-to-use padding compound. Simply stack pages flush, brush with compound and allow time to dry. Paper may easily be removed from finished pads one at a time. Price each.
	Heavy Duty Awl A large handle allows control and a strong grip. The fine point produces holes properly sized for sewing.
	Heavy-Duty Spatula This heavy-duty stainless steel spatula proves to be an indispensable tool in book repair and conservation work. You will find a number of uses for this 7"L tool including paste or adhesive application, corner lifting or burnishing (when applying repair ... read more
	Hinged Cambric Cloth Tape Use this tape to reinforce and reattach book covers, hinge music scores, reinforce pamphlets, etc. Acid-free white cambric tape has neutral pH water activated adhesive and is scored on the center to make hinging a snap. Roll is 1" x ... read more
	Light Duty Awl A light duty awl adequate for many bookbinding projects. The fine point produces holes properly sized for sewing.
	Lineco 3/8'' Linen Binding Tape This tape is unbleached and unsized, and suitable for sewing signatures. Measures 60" long. Price per package.
	Lineco Art Gum Eraser This unique formula eraser is totally nonabrasive and useful on cloth, paper and boards. Gentile pressure produces deep cleaning on most surfaces. Size is 1" x 1" x 2". Price per dozen.
	Lineco Cotton Head Band Material Use this white head band material for making codex style and casebound books. Made of 100% cotton. Ivory in color, 60". Price per package.
	Lineco Linen Thread Unwaxed and unbleached, this 35/3 gauge Linen Thread is perfect for bookbinding. The thread comes in 50 yd. spools. Price each.
	Lineco Waxed Linen Thread Great for bookbinding, crafts and art projects, this 5-ply natural linen thread is lightly waxed for easy use. This set includes three 20 yd. spools of black, orange and purple, sure to enhance the look of sewn projects. Price per ... read more
	Medium Duty Awl Made of stainless steel and featuring a beautifully designed curved handle, this awl combines excellent control and good punching force. Price each.
	Methyl Cellulose Adhesive A neutral pH, water reversible adhesive that drys clear. Use for repair, gluing end sheets and general archival adhesive applications.
	Old Master Leather Conditioner Old Master Leather Conditioner is the result of many years of research. It preserves and protects bookbinding leathers in a natural, organic way. It is a blend of pure, natural oils that also prevents mold and mildew, and discourages the ... read more
	Phase Box Riveter One of the best ways to protect old or rare books from damage caused by temperature and humidity changes, pollutants, light and the physical stresses of shelving is to create a phase box tailored to each book. Use this riveter ... read more
	Plastic Bone Folders These plastic bone folders are an invaluable tool for creasing archival papers. Use for creating you own folders and other storage devices. 8'' long with rounded edges and tapered body. Price each.
	Polyester Transparent Tape - 3M No. 850 A polyester tape coated with an acrylic adhesive similar to 3M's 415 tape but adhesive coated on one side only. Excellent for edge sealing plastic enclosures. Each roll is 72 yards long. Price per roll.
	Pre-shred Cotton Linters Get detailed paper casts with bright white cotton linters. Linters are pre-shredded and easy to use. Simply add water to cotton linter in a kitchen blender to hydrate. Complete instructions on package for casting. 8 oz. bag makes 50 medium ... read more
	Quick Bind Tape Two pieces of gummed tape are sewn together with the adhesive facing outward. The pamphlet is attached to one side, the covers are attached to the other to form a book. 2" x 36".
	Rare Book Identa-Strips University Products' acid-free and lignin-free Identa-Strips provide easy identification of shelved rare books. A die-cut tab prevents slippage into the book when vertically shelved. these acid-free Identa-Strips won't discolor pages of books into which they are inserted. Tab is located ... read more
	Screw Posts and Extensions Our screw posts are just the thing for creating albums, journals and homemade books. Price per package of three posts.
	Silk Headbands Attractive finishing touch for bound books, 6'' length
	Small Spatula The ideal tool for lifting or slitting paper, applying paste to small areas and numerous other tasks. Metal; one end tapered, one rounded. Flexible springy ends easily bend to shape. Overall length 7.5''. Price each.
	Spine Repair Tape This book repair tape is a vinyl coated cloth tape that is water and abrasion resistant. It has a matte finish, which makes it esthetically preferable and easily conforms to the contour of book spines. Each 2" x 15 yard ... read more
	Superior Quality Bookcloth University Products is pleased to offer two of the very best European Book cloths available. Brillianta book cloth is a strong, uncoated, rayon fabric which works well with adhesives, including our own white, Neutral pH Adhesive. It is backed ... read more
	Unbleached Cotton Tying Tape This soft, unbleached tying tape is invaluable for tying bundles of books and periodicals to be sent to the binder or for tying together damaged books while they await repair. Non-abrasive with no dye to bleed. Spool of 1000 yards. ... read more
	Unbuffered Conservation Quality Blotting Paper This archival quality unbuffered blotting paper, in large sheets (30" x 40"), and (40" x 60") has a pH of approximately 8.0, a soft textured surface and is highly absorbent. 369gsm, 135 lb. Price per carton.

Conservation Tapes and Adhesives

	Book Repair Tape Both the 1" and 2" tapes are used to hinge covers, reinforce pamphlets, repair covers and loose pages. They use a strong, acid-free linen fabric coated with neutral pH adhesive. While the repair is permanent the tape may be removed ... read more
	Book Repair Wings Book Repair Wings offer an inexpensive means of reinforcing book spines and corners. One size fits most books and no measuring or cutting is needed. Book Repair Wings are made of the same long lasting cloth material as our cloth ... read more
	Cellulose Gum (SCMC) In a 2 - 4% solution, this SCMC is used for a variety of conservation applications including as an adhesive, poultice, consolidant, and cleansing agent, as well as in the creation of art or decorative objects, just to name a ... read more
	Document Repair Tape This very thin and extremely transparent pressure sensitive document repair tape is non-yellowing, removable with solvents, and has a neutral pH. To use, dispense a length of tissue, place over the tear, and burnish with a bone folder. Working the ... read more
	Fish Gelatin Sheets of amber clear fish gelatin. Should first be soaked and then dissolved in a double boiler. Imported from Italy. Sheets measure approximately 9" x 2.5". Price per package of 12 sheets.
	Fish Glue A high-tack adhesive, light tan color. Free of salt but will shrink upon drying. Adding 10% glycerin will give greater flexibility and reduce shrinkage. This product is commonly used as an adhesive in furniture restoration where long drying times are ... read more
	Hayaku Japanese Hinging Paper Hayaku is a Japanese Mulberry Paper coated with acid-free water activated adhesive. This extremely strong, long fibered hinging material saves both time and money and has passed the Photo Activity Test. It is used for hinging works of art on ... read more
	Hinged Cambric Cloth Tape Use this tape to reinforce and reattach book covers, hinge music scores, reinforce pamphlets, etc. Acid-free white cambric tape has neutral pH water activated adhesive and is scored on the center to make hinging a snap. Roll is 1" x ... read more
	Wheat Starch A very carefully purified, uncooked food-grade wheat starch. When cooked, it makes a superior smooth wheat paste adhesive. NOTE: Must be cooked. Click on the RESOURCES tab to see the recipe.
	White Neutral pH Adhesive Lineco acid-free adhesive has excellent lay-flat properties and dries clear. Easy to use polyvinyl acetate (PVA) formula is fast setting and re-moistenable with water. This adhesive was formulated specifically for preservation materials and will not become brittle with ... read more

Read More

Preservation: Paper Conservation

Tools of the trade

Unrolling and documenting

A Technician documents an items to be exhibited.

One of the first jobs a conservator has to do once they receive an artifact is to document its current state.  It isn't unusual to spend the entire day going through the pieces delivered for documentation purposes. This is also a really nice way to familiarise myself with the objects prior to taking them to the conservation lab.

There could be as many as 30 pieces to go through and document these in one day! Prior to starting to unroll the objects, it is essential to make sure there is table space large enough to do this in comfortably and that the surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. The documentation requires cross-referencing the numbering system created by the collection owners to make sure that the pieces are named properly. Then measure and date (where known) them, after which each of the items are examined carefully to document any issues with the paper and/or the inks and other media used in them.

example of a part of a documentation sheet (work in progress).

Diagrams and photography are also used support these notes. This is to make sure the condition of each individual object is documented thoroughly before any conservation and framing takes place. It is also important to document both the recto and verso of the piece.



There can be conditions on how much conservation actually takes place. These conditions can be dictated by owners of collections and even by the piece itself. As an example an object that has lived its life being folded, the folds become a part of its history. They might need to be strengthened by adding support to prevent any damage and tearing happening in the future but flattening the object entirely may not be the best treatment for it. Just as with surface cleaning pieces with pencil marks on them, great care needs to go into the planning of conservation treatments, which also emphasises the importance of thorough documentation.

selection of tools used in paper conservation.

The tools that a paper conservator needs to do their job are numerous but at the very top of that list should be patience. All of the physical tools required are the trade-off for the patience as a conservator gets to work with fairly random things at times. Conservators need to stay inventive; dentists tools become irreplaceable and making small saw-blades into scraping tools or suddenly possessing a vast collection of small jam jars that fill up your toolbox is not unheard of.



The conservator has to remember that the job isn't always a rush of repair work. Not only does everything generally take a long time, the paperwork and other forms of documentation - sketches, maps and photography - are absolutely essential to the conservation process. But more usually you need to research what it is you are working on to gain an understanding to any issues related to it. This is not unlike the museum sector, where knowing the history of 'the stuff' enables you to treat it with sensitivity to the traditions of another culture or religion, for example. Of course the variety of areas in which to specialise in within the conservation umbrella are numerous - many similar issues surrounding paper conservation.

selection of tools used in paper conservation.

The significant difference between conservation issues in archives and museums are that archive materials are generally handled, and the ability to do so becomes a part of the research process. Yet museum objects are there to be looked at and admired, most of the time behind a glass and out of reach.



A conservator doesn't only need to know what to do with the vast selection of tools of the trade, but I think also needs to be part artist, part photographer, part chemist and part researcher - and have the patience of a saint.

Detail from a poster

When there is the proposed of an exhibition of some work, an conservator has the opportunity to visit the archive and have a look through some of the materials which may be used. The majority of the objects are hopefully in great condition. Usually a lot of the work has been 'spared' by the fact that items have been stored correctly, say posters are rolled up in tubes and not handled much in the past and has also been very well looked after by the holders of the collection.



At first assessment, the rolled up pieces propose an issue for not only any conservation work, but also for mounting and framing for the exhibition. Most of the pieces that are currently of interest for the exhibition planning team will usually need conservation treatments such as surface cleaning, some possible aqueous washing, certainly flattening and even minor repairs to be done. There are also issues to consider in regards to storage post-exhibition, as once flattened it would be best the chosen objects stayed that way. However, more often than not, a lack of storage space dictates the terms.



To figure out the best way forward with a collection's conservation processes, the holders usually deliver a 'sample poster' to work on. The purpose of this is to not only try and estimate the time for conservation needs for budgetary reasons, but to also test out a possibility of using facsimiles in the exhibition to spare some of the more delicate originals the exposure. This suggestion is often made in cases when an exhibition is to tour other venues after the Local Gallery.



Prior to getting the poster delivered, you would about the options for flattening processes and the large dimensions of any objects would also have to be taken into careful consideration when handling. The inks used on the 'sample poster' needed to be tested for fugitivity if any aqueous flattening methods were to be used. Fugitivity testing is required to determine if the inks on a piece of work are likely to run when in contact with water and is essential before deciding on any aqueous treatments. This testing is done by using a small brush dipped in water and wetting a very small spot on a piece of work, letting the water seep into the paper and pressing a piece of blotter on top to see if there is any ink transferral. The process of wetting a spot is usually repeated a few times to make sure the paper fibres have taken the water in sufficiently enough for the ink fugitivity test to be conclusive. Usually all colours also need to be tested separately, as two inks won't necessarily behave in a similar manner when wet.



Anytime any actual conservation takes place, a pre-conservation record is filled. In this, the most common points that are recorded are type of paper (machine or hand made, laid or wove), dimensions, gsm (the weight of the paper), tears, dirt, folds, holes, print type and other materials used on it. The item is also measured, sketched and photographed.



After this one begins the conservation of the poster.  The item comes rolled up and has not been seen prior to unrolling it at the conservation studios, and you can imagine the joy in seeing all these beautiful bright colours! Thankfully the poster itself was in very good condition - only the obvious flattening issues and minor surface dirt on both recto and verso of the piece.

corner prior to surface- and spot-cleaning.

Along one edge there were also areas of ingrained stains, where the dirt had embedded itself into the paper fibres. Since this poster was acting as the 'test piece', after a general surface cleaning with grated Mars Staedler rubber, an attempt is made to removing these stains.

corner after surface- and spot-cleaning.

With these stains only cold distilled water is used, a thin brush to wet the affected area and the capillary action of blotter with pressure from a bone folder to reduce the stain. Most of the stains along the edge were water soluble. The general misconception about washing items is that after washing the stains will have disappeared entirely. More often than not, this is not the case. Conservation is still a relatively young profession and in the past, bleaching has been used as a conservation treatment - thankfully these days this is not considered good practice.

Spot-cleaning an area of the stained edge of a poster, on this strip of blotter you can see the gradual process of the stain being lifted off.

After some satisfaction with the stain removal, it is decided that the paper and inks used were strong and stable for dry heat pressing to flatten it. This meant there was no need to wet the object but instead after placing it under silicone pieces, it was flattened in quarter sections under a heated press.

Mechanical surface cleaning

There are good reasons for mechanical surface cleaning. All of the Archive objects might not necessarily need a lot of work doing to them, but they will all need to be surface cleaned prior to framing, for example.



Surface cleaning materials is a very important first step in the chain of events that stabilise an item being conserved. Dirt on objects can be a source of deterioration and in worse cases can contain mould spores that flourish on nutrients found within the paper and any debris left on it. Water has a strong capillary ability and when paper gets wet, the fibres expand. They contract again when drying, and if surface cleaning hasn't been done, this action traps in any dirt or dust particles left on the paper.



Considering the safety of an object needs to be taken into account. The strength of the paper will determine how and if surface cleaning can be carried out. It is important to remember and know that pencil marks, cataloguing marks and random smudges on objects can play a historic part in the object's life and removing these marks will change the object drastically. I should also note that both recto and verso of the item need to be cleaned.



For the most fragile pieces, surface cleaning might take place by using only a brush - the size of the brush will be dependent on how fragile the paper in question is. Mechanical cleaning can also be done with the aid of chemical sponges, which are widely used in conservation. They are composed of rubber and are heavily filled with calcium carbonate and do not leave any residue on the paper's surface, but are very effective in picking up dirt.

example of how much dirt can be lifted off a print with a chemical sponge.

Rubbers are also commonly used, and the most widely used are Staedler Mars rubbers. This particular make is used for the same reason as the chemical sponges - research has shown that this rubber does not leave any residue on the paper's surface. On sturdier archival pieces, the rubber can be used as a block. For more delicate pieces and items with pencil marks, the rubber is grated and a piece of cotton wool is parcelled inside a piece of anti-static cloth and this is used to gently roll over the grated rubber, removing surface dirt as you go along.



Groomstick is another tacky substance that can be used when wanting to pick up larger bits of debris on an item - for example pieces of glass from a broken frame. Groomstick has a very tacky nature and is not recommended to be used directly on the paper as it can damage the fibres. Using a museum vacuum is also an option and is generally used with archives that are very dirty, for example objects that have not previously been stored correctly. Vacuums should have a filter at the tip to enable picking up any loose pieces that may come off in the process.



Cleaning any tears and around holes and other damaged areas can also propose a problem, as it is important to take care not to damage the object any further. For tears along edges of a piece, a piece of melinex can be used to slide into the tear - this way both sides of the tear can be gently cleaned with less risk of extending the tear.



Surface cleaning objects takes a considerable amount of time - especially cleaning larger pieces.



This worked wonderfully well and the final result is pleasing. A melinex sleeve was then made to size and the poster is being transported back to base for the next step in the process.

Digitisation

Now a days, more often than not, a conservator starts working at an Archives as a Digitisation Technician, since most Archives are constantly in the midst of a project.



But as they continue working in the Archives they will continue enhancing and refreshing their conservation skills by working with paper other Conservator Professionals, who have years of priceless experience in the field and have provided others with new challenges on a weekly basis.



Conservators are not generally involved with digitisation, but some have years of experience in digitisating archival materials, with a path to conservation fortunate enough to have the skills to both conserve an original archival object and to digitise it.  This is particularly important when there are only a handful of technicians in your Library/Archive/Museum.



The digitisation of materials is at the forefront for many collections, and plays a big part in not only extending the lives of materials by reducing handling but also by opening collections to wider audiences when a visit is not feasable - this is of course making a general assumption that access to the internet is available.



Increasingly many Archives have a long and successfull history in digitisation. Posters and larger materials that do not fit into most scanners so are photographed instead. To photograph large pieces, technicians use a photographic studio setup in a separate area. For acquiring the best possible results, we use a Mamiya RZ medium format camera with a digital Imacon back attached and a set of flashes for even lighting.



The issue with digital photography and scanning of materials is that despite the advances in digital equipment over the years, details can still get 'lost in translation'. With our 'sample poster', the issue became the finely detailed black ink images lined along one detail of the piece. The digital elements of the camera were not able to handle the thin black lines so close together and created a colour effect on the image that is not present in the original.

colour effect created where the digital camera wasn't able to properly register the fine black lines so close together.

The only way to get around this phenomenon was in the post-photography production of the image. By isolating the affected areas and adjusting colour casts and contrast in a 'photo editing application', to lessen the effect of the colour and bring the digitised version of the poster closer to what the original looks like.

colour effect controlled by digitally masking the area and adjusting contrast and colour casts.

Since the 'sample poster' was digitised with the goal of possibly creating a facsimile for the forthcoming exhibition, the file size, pixel count and focus needed extra attention. The plan is for the reproduction to be printed out the same size as the original. For optimising the results, this means that the pixel count needed to be high and the dimensions of the digital file the same as the original dimensions of the poster. Colour matching will also prove a challenge, as the way in which colours are represented are as numerous as there are computer screen calibrations in the world. For any final printing, the printers would ideally need access to the original to be able to match the facsimile colours as closely as possible with the original colours on the poster.

Facsimiles

original poster (left) with the two facsimiles.

There is a lot of debate about the use of facsimiles and replicas in the Library/Archive/Museum world.  But replicas have been used since the beginning and for good reason. Artefacts are replicated to allow for them to be displayed in multiple Museums around the world to give a much wider audience the opportunity to see 'the artefact' in the flesh.  Many people do not have the freedom to travel the globe to see a 'original'. The use of facsimiles can prevent both damage and loss of the original from events such as a natural disaster or theft.  There is even, now, the case of facsimile pyramid at Gaza designed to prevent further erosion and humidity damage from the millions of tourists they get each year.



For the facsimiles of documents, the digital master file is given to both the reprographics department and a local photographic printers. It has been very interesting to observe the differences between the two. The colour casts are subtly different and there appears to be a difference between the contrast settings. This is because neither department adjusted their settings prior to printing, so these differences will have occurred in the printing process. As the copies were made in the spirit of testing out the process, neither department had access to the colour and grayscale control patched photographs or original poster for reference so the colours were not as vibrant as on the original. There were also subtle differences between being able to see the pixels - one was a little bit softer compared to the other.



For the purposes of making a decision about whether to show facsimiles or not, we arranged for the copies to be magnetically hung on a wall for the collection owners to see what could be done. Although they were very impressed with the results, a decision has now been made in collaboration with the entire team that only originals will be exhibited.



The digital image can now also be used in the planned digital resource in support of the exhibition and shared online.

Read More