Letter Conservation

As with any work on paper, certificates are subject to typical age damage caused by the acidic nature of the paper.  This includes browning/yellowing of the paper (acid burn) and brown spotting (foxing).  If the pH of the paper is not neutralized, these unsightly issues will worsen and the paper will become brittle. 

It is especially important to conserve a letter written in ink before it gets worse, because cleaning them is usually prohibitive.  Ink writing carries a high risk of bleeding and/or fading when exposed to water and cleaning solution.  Pencil/graphite is a stable pigment and a letter written with this medium can be cleaned in most cases.

Other damage we commonly see on letters is mold/mildew growth, tears and paper loss, rippling/curling, creasing, abrasions, liquid staining and insect damage.  Acidic mats, acidic backings and tape are also detrimental to a letter. 

ACA Paper Restoration provides letter conservation and letter restoration services.  Our letter restoration services include letter cleaning, deacidifying, patching, pressing, mold treatment, archival mounting, and encapsulation (piece is protected in a custom made clear polyester sleeve).  We also remove backings, mats and tape, if necessary.  

Find out what we can do to enhance and preserve your letter. 

If you are in need of letter repair, letter conservation or letter restoration, contact us today!