How to Care for Works on Paper: A Comprehensive Guide

Imagine owning a delicate watercolor painting passed down through generations, or a vibrant print discovered in a dusty antique shop. Works on paper, from drawings and etchings to treasured documents and vintage posters, offer a unique window into history and artistry. But these fragile pieces are also inherently susceptible to damage if not properly cared for. Sunlight, humidity, careless handling – all pose a threat. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to preserve your paper-based treasures for years to come.

Understanding the Vulnerabilities of Paper

Before delving into preservation techniques, it’s crucial to understand what makes works on paper so vulnerable. Paper itself is an organic material, primarily composed of cellulose fibers. These fibers are susceptible to a range of environmental and physical threats:

  • Light: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight and artificial light causes fading, discoloration, and weakening of the paper fibers. This is perhaps the most significant threat.
  • Humidity: High humidity levels encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which stain and weaken paper. Fluctuations in humidity can also cause paper to expand and contract, leading to warping and cracking.
  • Temperature: High temperatures accelerate the chemical processes that degrade paper. Extreme cold can make paper brittle.
  • Acidity: Many papers, especially those made after the mid-19th century, contain acidic compounds that cause them to yellow, become brittle, and eventually disintegrate.
  • Pests: Insects like silverfish and bookworms feed on paper and adhesives, causing significant damage.
  • Pollution: Airborne pollutants, such as dust, dirt, and smog, can accumulate on paper surfaces, causing discoloration and abrasion.
  • Handling: Improper handling, such as folding, creasing, and tearing, can cause irreversible damage.

Creating a Preservation-Friendly Environment

The foundation of paper conservation lies in creating a stable and protective environment. This involves controlling light, humidity, temperature, and air quality.

Light Control

The most effective way to protect works on paper from light damage is to limit their exposure. Here’s how:

  • Avoid direct sunlight: Never hang works on paper in direct sunlight. Sunlight is incredibly damaging and will cause fading in a relatively short time.
  • Use UV-filtering glazing: When framing works on paper, use glazing (glass or acrylic) that filters out UV radiation. Conservation-grade glazing offers the best protection.
  • Control artificial light: Use low-UV emitting light bulbs, such as LED or fluorescent lights with UV filters. Avoid incandescent bulbs, which emit significant amounts of UV radiation and heat.
  • Rotate displayed items: If you have a valuable work on paper, consider rotating it with other pieces in your collection to minimize its exposure to light.

Humidity and Temperature Control

Maintaining stable humidity and temperature levels is crucial for preventing mold growth, warping, and embrittlement. Here’s how:

  • Maintain consistent humidity: Aim for a relative humidity level between 45% and 55%. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
  • Avoid humidity fluctuations: Rapid changes in humidity are more damaging than consistently high or low levels. Avoid storing works on paper in areas with fluctuating humidity, such as bathrooms or attics.
  • Control temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C). Avoid storing works on paper near heat sources, such as radiators or fireplaces.
  • Use climate control systems: In museums and archives, sophisticated climate control systems are used to maintain optimal humidity and temperature levels. For home collections, humidifiers and dehumidifiers can be used to regulate humidity, and air conditioning can help control temperature.

Air Quality Control

Protecting works on paper from airborne pollutants is essential for preventing discoloration and abrasion. Here’s how:

  • Keep your storage and display areas clean: Regularly dust and vacuum your storage and display areas to remove dust, dirt, and other pollutants.
  • Use air filters: Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne pollutants from the air.
  • Avoid storing works on paper near sources of pollution: Avoid storing works on paper near sources of pollution, such as kitchens, garages, or fireplaces.

Proper Handling Techniques

Careless handling is a common cause of damage to works on paper. Follow these guidelines to minimize the risk of damage:

  • Wash your hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling works on paper. Natural oils and dirt on your hands can transfer to the paper and cause staining.
  • Wear gloves: Consider wearing cotton or nitrile gloves to prevent the transfer of oils and dirt.
  • Support the paper: Always support the paper when handling it to prevent bending or creasing. Use a large, flat surface to work on.
  • Avoid touching the image: Avoid touching the image surface as much as possible. Handle the paper by the edges or corners.
  • Use clean tools: Use clean, soft brushes to remove dust from the surface of the paper. Avoid using erasers, which can abrade the paper.
  • Never fold or crease: Never fold or crease works on paper. This can cause irreversible damage.

Related image

Storage Solutions for Works on Paper

Proper storage is essential for the long-term preservation of works on paper. Here are some storage options to consider:

Archival Folders and Enclosures

Archival folders and enclosures provide a protective barrier against dust, dirt, and light. Choose folders and enclosures made from acid-free, lignin-free paper or buffered board. These materials will not degrade the paper over time.

  • Acid-free folders: These folders are made from acid-free paper and provide a basic level of protection.
  • Buffered folders: These folders contain an alkaline buffer that neutralizes acids in the paper. They are particularly useful for storing works on paper that are already acidic.
  • Polyester sleeves: These sleeves are made from inert polyester film and provide excellent protection against dust, dirt, and moisture.
  • Encapsulation: Encapsulation involves sealing a work on paper between two sheets of clear polyester film. This provides a high level of protection but should only be done by a trained conservator.

Archival Boxes

Archival boxes provide a sturdy and protective environment for storing folders and enclosures. Choose boxes made from acid-free, lignin-free board. Ensure the box is large enough to accommodate the folders and enclosures without bending or creasing them.

Flat Files

Flat files are specially designed cabinets for storing large works on paper, such as posters and maps. They provide a flat, horizontal surface that prevents bending and creasing.

Storage Tips

  • Store works on paper flat: Always store works on paper flat to prevent bending and creasing.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Do not overcrowd storage boxes or flat files. This can cause damage to the paper.
  • Label storage containers: Label all storage containers clearly so you can easily identify the contents.
  • Keep a record of your collection: Keep a record of all the works on paper in your collection, including their condition and storage location.

[internal_link]

Framing Works on Paper for Display

Framing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of works on paper but also provides essential protection. Here are some framing guidelines to follow:

  • Use archival-quality materials: Use only archival-quality materials for framing, including mat board, backing board, and glazing.
  • Use UV-filtering glazing: As mentioned earlier, use glazing that filters out UV radiation. Conservation-grade glazing offers the best protection.
  • Matting: Use a mat to separate the artwork from the glazing. This prevents the artwork from sticking to the glazing and provides space for the artwork to expand and contract with changes in humidity.
  • Hinging: Use archival-quality paper tape or linen tape to hinge the artwork to the backing board. Avoid using pressure-sensitive tapes, which can damage the paper over time.
  • Backing board: Use an acid-free, lignin-free backing board to provide support for the artwork.
  • Sealing the frame: Seal the back of the frame to prevent dust and insects from entering.

Cleaning and Repairing Works on Paper

Cleaning and repairing works on paper should be performed by a trained conservator. Attempting to clean or repair a damaged work on paper yourself can often cause further damage. However, here are some general guidelines:

Cleaning

  • Surface cleaning: Use a soft brush to gently remove dust and dirt from the surface of the paper.
  • Spot cleaning: Avoid spot cleaning unless you are a trained conservator. Improper cleaning techniques can cause staining or discoloration.

Repair

  • Tears: Tears should be repaired by a trained conservator using archival-quality repair tissue and adhesive.
  • Losses: Losses (missing areas) should be filled by a trained conservator using appropriate materials and techniques.
  • Deacidification: Deacidification is a process that neutralizes acids in the paper. This should only be performed by a trained conservator.

When to Consult a Professional Conservator

It’s always best to consult a professional conservator if you have any concerns about the condition of your works on paper. A conservator can assess the condition of the artwork, recommend appropriate treatment options, and perform the necessary repairs or cleaning. Here are some situations when you should definitely consult a conservator:

  • The artwork is torn, stained, or discolored.
  • The artwork is brittle or fragile.
  • The artwork is moldy or infested with insects.
  • You are unsure how to clean or repair the artwork.
  • The artwork is of significant historical or artistic value.

Preserving Paper Treasures for Future Generations

Caring for works on paper requires a proactive approach, combining preventative measures with careful handling and appropriate storage. By understanding the vulnerabilities of paper and implementing the techniques outlined in this guide, you can safeguard your cherished paper-based items, ensuring they remain a source of beauty and historical insight for generations to come. Remember, even small efforts can make a significant difference in the longevity of these delicate treasures. Take the time to protect them, and they will reward you with their enduring beauty for years to come.

Scroll to Top