Vellum, or very thin animal skin parchment, requires special care. Parchment and vellum were the most common materials for handwritten manuscripts throughout the Middle Ages. Vellum and parchment are still used by some modern artists and craftspeople, so these techniques may also be useful for collectors of contemporary pieces. While single leaves of manuscripts are still quite accessible, many may have stains or other minor damage. Simple steps may allow you to restore a stained vellum manuscript leaf without doing further damage or investing in professional restoration.
Instructions
Restore a Stained Vellum Manuscript
1. Prepare a clean work surface. Vacuum and dust the area well and spread clean cotton muslin over the surface to protect your vellum manuscript. Put on clean white cotton gloves. Wear a mask if you are concerned about mold or dust; however, in many cases, a mask may not be essential.
2. Start by cleaning the outer covers with a large, soft paintbrush. Use smaller and slightly stiffer brushes to work into crevices; however, exercise special care when working around gilt or gilding as it may be quite fragile.
3. Support the manuscript carefully to clean and restore a stained vellum manuscript safely. Roll cotton muslin and place it under one or both sides of the manuscript to reduce strain on the spine while the vellum book is open.
4. Dust the individual vellum manuscript pages using a soft brush. Pay special attention to visible dirt or staining on your vellum or parchment manuscript.
5. Use a plain white art eraser to gently remove stains from the margins of the stained manuscript. Work slowly and carefully, applying only minimal pressure.
6. Try a vulcanized rubber smoke sponge, available from conservation suppliers, on difficult stains.
7. Store your vellum manuscript in a climate and humidity controlled environment. Consider having a single leaf or two professionally framed to create this ideal storage environment.
