Paper Conservation Services

All of our services are guided by established conservation ethics: carefully considered, fully documented and tailored to each project. If there’s a service you do not see listed, please feel free to contact us with your inquiry.

TREATMENT

paper conservation treatment service before and after

We perform a wide range of conservation treatments for paper-based objects including surface cleaning, mending, stain reduction, consolidation, flattening, and lining.

Each treatment is unique to the object and is intended to stabilize and extend the life of each object for generations to come.

PRESERVATION

paper conservation preservation

We have extensive experience conducting large scale collection surveys for museums. Let us help you document the condition of objects in your collection, propose treatment and housing options, and assess storage spaces to facilitate future planning.

MATTING AND ENCLOSURES

paper conservation matting and enclosures

We provide matting and housing services with museum quality materials, preparing objects for exhibition or storage.

Mats are custom-cut based on aesthetic preferences and intended purpose. Objects are mounted with conservation grade materials, ensuring the protection and stability of objects.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

paper conservation hazardous materials

There’s recently been heightened interest and research on heavy metals present in cultural heritage objects. We can provide training on how to handle and house paper based objects suspected of containing hazardous materials.

We are members of the bibliotoxicology field and have contributed largely through presentations and publications. Read more about hazardous materials in collections.

PICKUP AND TRANSPORT

We collect and transport objects directly to our studio within a reasonable distance, so you don't have to risk shipping something irreplaceable. Get in touch to arrange it.

PRICING

Each object and project is unique. Standard pricing is not available and will depend on the complexity of treatment.

We are happy to assess any object or project and provide several treatment options. There’s an initial $50 assessment fee, which will later be applied to the final cost if treatment is selected.

Lea doing professional paper conservation in her office in Metro Detroit

COMMON QUESTIONS


What does the $50 examination include?

An in-person examination of the object, written and photographic documentation of its condition, and a written proposal covering what we recommend, and what it will cost. If you go ahead with treatment, the $50 comes off the total.


Do you do framing?

We make custom mats and enclosures from conservation-grade materials, built for the particular object. We don't do decorative framing, though we're happy to refer you to someone who does, or talk to your framer about glazing and mounting.


Do you work with institutions as well as private clients?

Yes, we service both institutions as well as private clients.


How far do you travel?

Metro Detroit and Michigan as standard. We travel to Ohio, Indiana and Illinois for larger projects.