Paper Conversation – Oxfordshire Art Restorers

Paper Conservation

Works on paper, whether a watercolour, drawing, etching, print, map or a beloved poster, are at risk from tears, holes, mould, insects, foxing and staining. No need to worry as our team are on hand to clean, restore and conserve them.

We are able to restore pieces that have become damaged or disturbed by mould or foxing, including the safe removal of contamination and staining.

We are able to lovingly restore:

Mould growth and moisture disturbances
Foxing, staining and discolouration
Tears and creasing
Water damage
Fire and smoke damage
Acidic mount and frame deterioration

Foxing manifests as brown spots on watercolours, prints, and other paper-based documents, can significantly affect the visual appeal of paper artworks, with its severity increasing over time.

The occurrence of foxing is attributed to the composition of the paper, leading to the development of darkened areas. This aesthetically displeasing problem is often a result of aging and can be exacerbated by high levels of humidity.

The inherent porous quality of paper creates an ideal environment for mould growth, particularly in humid conditions or in the aftermath of water-related incidents such as floods and leaks. Mould spores have the potential to spread rapidly over time, posing both a threat to the artwork and to your health.

Our studio safely preserves artworks affected by mould, effectively neutralizing active spores. This intervention halts the ongoing spread of mould and ensures that any embedded spores remain dormant.

Following the eradication of mould, the restoration process commences. This involves the careful elimination of discolouration and physical mould growth, utilizing a customized solution that lifts the contamination without impacting the original artwork or text. Once the paper is visually restored, measures can be taken to flatten it if warping or cockling has occurred.

Watercolour and gouache artworks can be saved with sensitive treatments following disasters, accidents and staining.

Paper artworks and documents often have damage created by the frame they reside in. This is due to the acidity of the surrounding mount and backing board, as well as tape and other adhesives which were used in the original framing process.

An artwork or document which has been affected can be gently washed in a tailored solution, lifting the dark contamination whilst preserving the original image or text.

With a deep understanding of paper composition and conservation techniques, our skilled team ensures a careful and tailored restoration process that addresses issues such as discolouration, foxing, and mould while reviving the original artistic intent.

Beyond restoration, we commit to environmental responsibility by choosing preservation over replacement, contributing to sustainable practices.

Enquire today, where our passion for preservation breathes new life into your cherished items, protecting your cultural heritage and artistic legacy

"I'm blown away by the incredible work of the restoration team at Oxfordshire Art Restorers! They brought my family's ancient photos back from the brink, showing such care and detail. Grateful doesn't even begin to cover it"

- Bertie Harrington

"I thought my water-damaged watercolour was a goner, but Oxfordshire Art Restorers proved me wrong. They not only saved it but enhanced its vibrancy. Can't recommend their skillful restoration services enough"

- Lisa Hastings