Re: How can I flatten an OLD photo that has been rolled up for years without damaging it?

"MrBlobby" <(E-Mail Removed)> spake:

>Hi, I have just been given a photo from around 1923 of a Zeplin at
>Lakehurst, NJ. It's a beautiful old thing about 2 feet long and 7 inches
>high. I assume it's been rolled up for fifty years or more. I want to
>flatten it out to frame it, but I'm scared to death I'll crack it. Anyone
>know a proper technique for dealing with such a thing? Thanks.

Speaking as a photo archivist, the only safe way is to reintroduce moisture
vapor slowly. I see rolled panos all the time in the collections I've
visited, and the most basic makeshift solution involves two plastic bins
and some water. :-) If you like I can dig around for some moisture tent
schematics, but if you're even a little bit nervous, you should probably
ask/hire a professional.

Call your local City Archives. They can direct you to a conservator, or
may even have someone skilled on staff. They will ask if you will ever
want to donate the photo of course. ;-)

Regards,
-/- Lucas


Lucas A.