Conservation is a process that begins prior to framing. It begins by keeping the paper as archival as possible. For example, blotters that are used to absorb moisture in the air and paper needs to be archival as does glassine, which is used as an interfacing sheet between papers during the drying and/or the storage process.
Conservators look for strength and a range of material offered in varying weights. Japanese papers consisting of kozo or mulberry offer the best materials for the restoration process due to their strength and pliability. Japanese papers come in various weights so very thin tissues can be used to repair damage to delicate areas, whereas thicker papers are best suited to restoring backs of books or spines, for example. Kozo papers are primarily used in the framing industry as hinges because the material is strong and naturally acid-and lignin-free.
