![]() ![]() Store textiles in climate-controlled spaces, not in attics or basements.Textiles (and the dyes used to color them) are very susceptible to damage from light, acids and pests. In the 20th century, synthetic or laboratory textiles have been developed such as rayon, nylon and acetate. Until the 20th century, textiles were made from natural sources, such as cotton or linen plants or sheep or silkworms. Most families have a treasured textile such as a quilt, wedding dress or tablecloth that has been handed down through the generations. Textiles-or objects made from woven fibers - are among the most common types of artifacts found in museums or within a family. Conduct regular inspections of these objects for any changes in condition.īasic Preservation Techniques for Textiles Some objects that are composed of incompatible materials, such as wood and leather or wood and paint, have built-in deterioration risks. Chemicals such as formaldehyde and acidic gases from wooden compounds can also harm historic objects. This is a particular concern for outdoor objects such as marble statuary, iron architectural elements, etc. All of these uses put undue strain on the objects and put them at risk for loss or damage.Ĭertain types of materials, such as metal and marble, react to chemicals present in the air. Many objects are damaged because people handle them in inappropriate ways, such as trying on clothing, taking items to show-and-tell at school or even using them for their original purposes. Wear cotton or nylon gloves when handling historic paper, textiles, photographs, and wooden and metal objects. These oils and other surface substances are transferred to the object during handling. Human beings are one of the greatest threats to historic objects, not only due to surface compounds, such as oil, sweat and make-up that they carry on their skin, but also because we continue to use historic objects. Conduct regular inspections of historic objects that attract pests. Moths are attracted to protein fibers such as silk and wool. Roaches and silverfish are attracted to paper and books. Store historic memorabilia in an area that has a steady, constant humidity (45%–55%), and store or display historic materials away from heating and air conditioning vents.ĭifferent types of historic materials attract different types of pests. Organic objects in particular absorb and release moisture depending on the relative humidity of their environment and need a stable humidity. Humidity that is too low can cause objects to become brittle. Humidity that is too high encourages pests and mold growth on paper, textiles and parchment, and promotes rust on metal. Do not store in sheds, attics and basements. Store or display historic memorabilia in spaces that have climate-control systems (heating and air conditioning). Too high or too low a temperature (or rapid temperature swings) can damage rubber, wood, metal, etc. Place furniture, antique quilts and other memorabilia out of direct sunlight and/or florescent light. Historic objects should be protected from excessive light levels, and especially from sunlight and florescent light, which contain high amounts of ultraviolet radiation-which is the most harmful form of light. Too much light speeds deterioration of photographs, textiles and printed or handwritten paper, furniture, etc. The following hazards are recognized as some of the most dangerous to historic memorabilia. The basic principle of preservation of historic memorabilia is DO NO HARM. ![]() Looking for a conservator? Check out our list of conservation resources below. Here we cover general hazards to artifacts and specific techniques for preserving textiles, paper, photographs, metal, leather and wood. Use the following guidelines to keep your historic memorabilia in the best shape possible. ![]()
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