Poster Linen Backing

Linen Backing is a long established process, used for the conservation of vintage posters, that allows them to be safely rolled for storage as well as being framed for display. It provides support for weak, acidic paper that has huge potential to be damaged by handling, due to its size, enabling easy and safe handling. The process, also allows the reduction in soluble acids and discolouration as the works are washed prior to backing, bringing the paper closer to its original tone and allowing the reduction in any staining. This application of water relaxes the paper allowing it to expand so that when it’s applied to its linen backing and dries, any fold lines are flattened out as it contracts.

Post linen backing we are able to carry out other aesthetic and structural improvements including filling of losses and retouching to the design layer; often found on old fold lines once they have been flattened.

BEFORE TREATMENT

A poster with the customary fold lines often found on objects of this type.

With thanks to Art of the Movies

AFTER TREATMENT

After linen backing the fold lines are removed with any loss retouched.

With thanks to Art of the Movies

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER TREATMENT

BEFORE TREATMENT

Creasing associated with folding

Thanks to Art of the Movies

AFTER TREATMENT

Creases are fully flattened and the work is supported for safe handling, storage or display.

Thanks to Art of the Movies

At Stubbs Conservation we use the highest quality materials in all of our processes that are both fully compatible with paper supports as we as being fully reversible. We use a suitably weighted cotton that has been scoured, de-sized and produced without the use of any bleach with a Japanese facing paper applied. We use water based conservation adhesive with excellent strength and known aging characteristics with no additives.

DURING TREATMENT: This image shows the stage after the work has been applied to the linen and allowed to dry. It is totally flat, however the disruptions/losses to the design layer caused by exceeding the folding endurance of the paper are very much visible

AFTER TREATMENT: This image shows the completed work after restorative retouching has taken place. Using reversible media and techniques we “reintegrate” the image so it can be appreciated in full without distracting damages.

For basic linen backing we charge based on poster size with all additional services, including tape removal, infill and retouching charged at an hourly rate. The listed prices included surface cleaning, one wash cycle and the linen backing itself. For a full quote, with no obligation, please get in touch by email or by filling out the form on the Contact Us page.