The answer is generally “no”.   Restoration is only performed on a work on paper after it has been damaged in some way.   The damage that has already occurred to the piece has devalued it.   Proper professional restoration and conservation, in addition to making a piece look nicer, can stabilize whatever value is left, and in some cases, recover some value to a damaged piece.

A poorly restored work on paper can devalue a piece, however.  Insufficient knowledge, experience and techniques can further damage a work on paper and its value.  So think twice before undertaking a “DIY” job or using a restorer who cannot produce examples of their work and/or references.

In any case, if you are unsure if restoring one of your works on paper will harm its value, we recommend consulting an appraiser, artists’ foundation or other appropriate professional, before having your piece restored.

1)         Photograph all damaged works, where they are and as they are, before doing anything to them.

2)         Once photos are taken, if the works are wet, remove all frames and framing materials, leaving the works exposed to the air.

3)         Place the works on a dry, clean surface and leave them out to dry, if necessary.

4)         In the case that mold has already begun to grow, dry the pieces and keep them in a dry environment.  Placing them in plastic bags and in a freezer helps slow the mold growth process as well.  Do not try to remove the mold, this can grind the spores into the paper, making the mold more difficult to remediate and clean.

6)         In the case of soot being on a work on paper, do not try to remove the soot.  This can cause the soot to be ground into the paper and will make it very difficult to remove.

7)         Contact ACA Paper Restoration to discuss what else you can do to save your works on paper.  In addition to restoration and conservation services, we can submit a restoration quote for your insurance claim, if necessary.