{"id":9470,"date":"2019-10-09T10:27:11","date_gmt":"2019-10-09T10:27:11","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/fineart-restoration.co.uk\/?post_type=faq&p=8262"},"modified":"2023-01-18T20:01:42","modified_gmt":"2023-01-18T20:01:42","slug":"torn-paper-restoration-watercolours-prints-maps-and-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fineart-restoration.co.uk\/guides-and-advice\/torn-paper-restoration-watercolours-prints-maps-and-more\/","title":{"rendered":"Torn paper restoration"},"content":{"rendered":"

It is always a fascinating source of interest for our clients and art collectors to see how we repair watercolours and works-on-paper. It is understandable to assume there is little or nothing that can be done to fix such fragile items. Although these are naturally delicate items, repairs are still possible and very successful. So how do we repair watercolours and works-on-paper that are damaged and ensure a seamless repair?<\/p>\n

\"\"Above: a torn print before after after restoration by our ICON accredited conservator<\/em><\/h6>\n

How are torn watercolours repaired?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

As you will know from looking at the numerous case studies and articles on our website, we conduct an assessment for every artwork we receive into the studio. This helps us to understand the current condition of an artwork and the treatment that is required. Unframed works on paper are particularly susceptible to damage due to being unprotected. The fragility of the thin paper can easily be torn if knocked or dropped. If artwork has been rolled up or folded for some time, perhaps if it is a map or certificate, its structure is weakened and it becomes most fragile along the crease lines. This can therefore often lead to tears.<\/p>\n

\"WatercolourAbove: a torn and yellowed watercolour painting before and after restoration by our paper conservator<\/em><\/h6>\n

For watercolours with tears, missing paper, punctures or holes, the most common method for repairing is to fill the damaged areas with liquid paper pulp, and subsequently line with Japanese tissue for the most comprehensive structural stability.<\/p>\n