Category Archives: CAUTIONS

Modern Textile Art is Often Not Created for Conservation

One of the biggest challenges in conservation is when the artists were not thinking about their pieces being loved and collected, and eventually, cleaned and conserved, and work in mediums that are experimental (as in the case of early acrylics). … Continue reading

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How to Talk to an Artisan or Contractor

*this teaching moment applies to many types of situations… nothing here intended to be derogatory — just silly sweeping generalizations and fiction!* You have a lovely valuable antique (above) worth $5000 that needs work. Here are several scenarios and what … Continue reading

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All Hide Glues are NOT Equal

Not all commercial hide glues are equal. We want to make sure you are using the good stuff, even for a temporary repair you may want to make on your own furniture. Also, a furniture repair person may say they … Continue reading

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Process: Circus Ball!

The thing I love most about our business is that you never know what is going to roll into our studio for treatment! Earlier this year, a new client sent the images below, along with the image of his aunt … Continue reading

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Taking Care of Your Antique Quilt

Rule #1: When in doubt, ask a conservator before proceeding.  Most conservators will offer assessments at a low rate, and an hour of their time might save your heirloom.  You can find a conservator in the USA here: https://www.culturalheritage.org/about-conservation/find-a-conservator A … Continue reading

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Quilts as a Microcosm of History

I am sure that more eloquent history writers than I have written on the role of quilts as historical objects.  I want to share my perspective on the single object that we: see the most distress over condition issues, even … Continue reading

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S is for Shellac Varnish Damage: A-to-Z Challenge

Damage to traditional shellac varnishes — original varnishes made from shellac, and possibly with additional resins such as dammar, etc. — is often preventable.  We see several common and preventable mistakes owners make over and over again.  Before stripping, call … Continue reading

Posted in antiques, CAUTIONS, conservation techniques, preservation, reparation, restoration techniques, shellac, traditional varnishes, waxes, wooden objects | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

L is for Lead: A-to-Z-Challenge

Let’s talk about lead as in lead paint, shown right in a Mason Monterey Horseshoe-back Chair, especially in the cream, yellow, and greens.  While we are at it, let’s talk about toxic pigments in antique or vintage paints. We love … Continue reading

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Mixing Rhoplex™ and Micro-crystalline Balloons Teaches Patience!

Just a short post of the wonder of mixing micro-crystalline balloons into Rhoplex™.  Whenever I do this I have to slow way down, and practice patience, which is not one of my virtues.  Currently we have this lovely Louis XIV … Continue reading

Posted in antiques, CAUTIONS, conservation techniques, Interim Report, pest infestation, preservation, process | Tagged , , | 1 Comment