How to Restore an Art Print
Restoration of an art print can make or break it. Some works of art should not be restored, but others are better when their imperfections are corrected. This is a delicate process, and it should only be done by someone with experience and a steady hand.
- Have the art print evaluated by a professional. This is extremely important. Sometimes attempting to restore an old art print can lower its value. Find out if you should restore it, or if it is worth more as it sits.
- Remove the folds and bends. This can be a difficult task, but it can be done. You will need to wet the print and then press between two weighted boards. Be careful not to complete soak papers like cardboard and rice, as they cannot withstand too much moisture.
- Repair any tears and rips. Small tears can be fixed by gluing a piece of paper to the pack of the print connecting the torn place. Use glue with a high starch count, and dry the painting pressed between two weighted boards.
- Fix the hole in the art print. You will cut out a piece of paper the same size and shape of the hole. Glue this with starchy glue and dry in a press. You will then need to recreate the missing part of the image.
- Remove stains from the print. Ink stains can be removed with a citric acid solution. This is done by using a fine brushed dipped in the solution. Oil stains can be cleaned by using alcohol.