Re: Needlework on perforated paper

[Jenny Barnett <andelos@xxxxxxxxx>]

You could  consider using a suction table with a sealed hood or tent connected
to an ultra-sonic humidifier. Paper conservators use this construction to
"wash" art on paper without disturbing loose pigments. As I understand it,
water vapor is drawn through the embroidered paper in a relatively gentle way
but with a greater cleaning power due to the small size of the water drops in
relation to their surface area. As the object does not become soaking wet,
there is supposed to be less risk of structural damage. It may be possible to
add a detergent to the water. I would think that a soil anti-deposition agent
would not be nesessary because the soiled water is removed instantaneously. The
suction should also make rinsing more effective.

I don't have any references from the paper conservation field. For cleaning
tapestries in a similar way see the following:
Timar-Balazsy, A., & Eastop, D.,  International perspectives in textile
conservation, ICOM-CC textiles Working Group meetings, 1994 and 1995, Archetype
Publications, London,1998

   * Barnett, J.C., The use of a domestic water extracting vacuum cleaner in
     the wet cleaning of carpets and tapestries
   * Maes. Y., Tapestry cleaning by aerosol suction. (the cleaning principle of
     aerosol suction is explained)

As for supporting  the piece, backing with Japanese paper and starch paste is
worth considering.
I have a similar piece awaiting treatment so I look forward to hearing your
results.
good luck!
Jenny Barnett

"Ellis, Shirley" wrote:

> I would like to seek advice from others who have had experience with a wool
> needlework on a perforated paper substrate.  This object is in a fairly
> weakened state with numerous splits in the paper, some of which have been
> previously repaired with old magazine paper strips (adhered to the reverse
> but are soluble in water).  This piece also has tide lines along the upper
> edge (due to flood damage) and is distorted (cockled).  The wool yarn is
> faded and has some insect damage.
>
> The advice I seek is for cleaning and mounting.  I have treated a similar
> object that was in much better condition, where I repeatedly wetted with
> purified water then blotted, and finally weighted between layers of blotting
> paper to block.  This was relatively successful, however given the condition
> of this object I am seeking further insight from others who may have worked
> with this type of material.  Is there a better way to clean this?  Or would
> cleaning be ill advised?  I should also say that I do have access to a
> suction table (that doesn't suck well!).
>
> With regards to mounting this piece, I have been considering a pressure
> mount, again due to its condition.  Any comments or suggestions would be
> appreciated.
>
> Shirley
>
> Shirley Ellis, MAC, CAPC
> FSO/Conservator
> Department of Human Ecology
> B-20 Human Ecology Building
> University of Alberta
> Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2N1
> ph (780) 492-7678  fax (780) 492-4821
> email:  shirley.ellis@xxxxxxxxxxx
> http://www.hecol.ualberta.ca/texconserv.html