CLEANING: 
removal of surface dirt like nicotine, but also the removal of a yellowed varnish layer, the first is considerable easier to do than the second! (This is because solvents are necessary for removing the varnish, and then the paint can also be damaged) It is often necessary to perform, because the frequently used natural resin varnish can yellow considerably in approximately 25 years time. For replacement a much less rapidly yellowing acrylic resin is used.

MENDING TEARS 
can be done in several manners, for example: rejoining the broken linen threads one by one, (glue) also stitching with help of surgical needles is possible, depending on the type of tear. Gaps can be filled with a precisely cut small piece of linen, after these repairs sometimes relining the painting will still be necessary.

RELINING: 
for strengthening a brittle or badly torn canvas, a new piece of linen is glued at the back of the original painting. This is performed with aid of a created vacuum, with an especially for this purpose developed adhesive. With older paintings the linen has frequently become brittle, which will cause the paintings to become damaged very quickly.

FILLING: 
Filling up spots on the painting where original paint is gone. This filling must level with the original painting layer, and also have the same structure.

RETOUCHING 
Completing places where original paint is lost with the exact matching colour and form. Done with paint which does not yellow or discolour.

TO VARNISH 
The last operation to a painting: frequently necessary to bring back the depth of colour. Also serves as a protective layer. Can be done with spray gun or brush.

conserveer@xs4all.nl