Adopt a preventive mindset. Don’t store organic materials in damp lofts or cellars. Don’t use adhesive tape on things you want to keep. Avoid hanging art in bright daylight/direct sunlight. Also, stop using the picture lights that were so popular a while ago. Ask for advice from conservators and be prepared to spend money on professional framing. Often the things we have at home get damaged by contact with poor-quality materials. Other common problems include fading because of too much light, and damp-related issues such as mould.

Kind regards from Alexandra, paper conservator