Our Services
Conservation of paper artifacts
Making museum quality conservation and restoration services within reach.
Expert SERVICES
CONSERVATION OF PAPER
TREATMENTS FOR PAPER
COMMON FIXES FOR PAPER-BASED ARTIFACTS
PAPER-BASED ARTIFACTS
WHAT WE WORK ON
At Irwin Paper Conservation, we understand the value of your precious paper-based artifacts. Whether it’s a rare manuscript, a cherished piece of artwork, or important historical documents, our expert conservation services ensure that your items are meticulously conserved, repaired, and preserved for generations to come. No matter the age or condition, your valuable artifacts are in trusted hands.
Preserving paper artifacts is crucial because these items often carry valuable information, historical insights, or emotional meaning. Over time, exposure to light, moisture, poor quality materials, and handling can cause irreversible damage. Conservation safeguards their integrity, preserves history and cultural heritage for future generations.
We work with a wide variety of paper artifacts from maps and documents to lamp shades and papier-mâché folk art.
PRINTS AND POSTERS
Preserving and repairing artworks that are printed such as lithographs, etchings, engravings, silkscreens, and woodblock prints to their original beauty.
Photographs
Stabilizing and conserving photographs, from 19th century photographic prints to modern photography. Damage may include images stuck to glass, moisture, cracked emulsion.
Maps
Safeguarding historical and contemporary maps by repairing damage, reducing degradation, and preserving their intricate details for research and display.
Documents
Protecting important personal and historical documents, including letters, certificates, and manuscripts, genealogical materials, parchment, deeds, blueprints, historic currency and more.
Books AND Bound Materials
Restoring and preserving bound materials, from rare books to family heirlooms, by repairing structural damage and preventing further wear, ensuring their longevity and useability.
WATERCOLOURS AND DRAWINGS
Restore and preserve watercolors and drawings with expert care. We handle staining, discoloration, tears, and other damage to ensure your artwork remains vibrant and intact for years to come.
WHAT TO EXPECT
HOW IT WORKS:
Your Conservation Journey in 4 Simple Steps
1.
FREE CONSULTATION
Begin by contacting us to discuss your needs. Send photos or arrange an in-person evaluation of your item(s). Estimates and consultations for treatments can be conducted at no cost. Work must be seen in person for a formal estimate.
2.
DOCUMENTATION
After assessment, we’ll craft a customized plan outlining recommended treatments, timeline, and costs. Once approved, your piece will be digitally documented, and a detailed condition report and proposal will be provided.
3.
TREATMENT
Once the proposal is approved the treatment will begin using best practices and the highest ethical standards as required by the American Institute of Conservation Code of Ethics. No treatments will be conducted without documentation and a full report.
4.
COMPLETION
After treatment is completed, we take final photographs for an After Treatment Report and prepare your item for safe return. You’ll receive your fully conserved piece along with documentation of the work performed and recommendations for long term preservation.
Testimonials and reviews
What Our Clients Have to Say
The skill and mastery that Seth brought to this restoration gave a result beyond my imagination and expectation. Of course he had carefully explained the process, steps, and pros and cons so I wouldn’t automatically expect perfection, but in this case it was pretty close to what I got. The end result took my breath away when I first saw the print fully restored. Now I have a wonderful key piece to my collection and it is a joy to look at. His skill to bring it to this level is to be commended.
We had an incredible experience working with Seth to restore a 1890s map found in our family home. Could not recommend working with him more!