hello Jane
By MDF I'm assuming you are talking about Medium Density Fiberboard?
Are you aware that MDF off gasses both formaldehyde and acetic acid, both used as part of its production?
In the sealed environment you have described this would be quite detrimental to the objects.
Also silk velvet off gasses sulphur products; I would be using a synthetic velvet as it is inert and more stable over time.
regards
Judith Andrewartha
Textile Conservator
National Museum of Australia
GPO Box 1901
Canberra, ACT 2601
Australia
I am looking for a source of silk velvet (light-weight), suitable for
use as a backing in an enclosed frame containing ivory/gilded metal.
The velvet will be use to cover the backboard of a shadowbox frame
which houses three ovals of carved ivory set in gilded frames.
Because of extensive mold growth the original wood backboard will be
replaced, mostly likely by MDF covered with ragboard, over which
new velvet will be placed. The original velvet can not be salvaged.
Can anyone recommend fabric sources that will sell small quanties ( a
yard?) of silk velvet suitable for conservation use? The original is
of a caramel color, so I am prepared to dye, if a white or ecru
velvet can be found.
Thank you for your recommendations.
Jane Hammond
Adjunct Textile Conservator
The Intermuseum Conservation Association
Cleveland, Ohio