Again, experience is essential in paper restoration. A good restorer will have dealt with almost every known problem and worked with a hundred and one different types of paper. A paper conservator also needs to be familiar with chemicals and their reaction to different media on paper.

Tests should be carried out on works before any action is taken. The most important one being its stability. Clients would not thank us if the paper was removed of unsightly blotches - but unfortunately the pen and ink had run and therefore the picture ruined.