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How to Maintain Posters

Whether collecting posters is for fun or for monetary value, maintaining posters is an important step in preserving and ensuring the long life of your property. As posters age, they can fade or yellow and fall prey to accidental damage. The fragile and absorbent nature of paper requires proper upkeep, whether the poster was manufactured last week or last decade. Without proper maintenance, the value and aesthetics can diminish and fade as quickly as the poster's ink.

Instructions

- 1
  Frame the poster. Chose a sturdy frame with acid-free backing, as posters draw out acid and discolor. While glass won't protect posters from fading or yellowing, conservation glass, which is more expensive, will. Conservation glass can still break. Plexiglass does not break, but to prevent scratching and protect posters, pick a quality plexiglass with a UV filter.
- 2
  Store posters that not on display. To keep posters in proper ambient conditions, avoid excessive temperature, humidity and exposure to light, which can deteriorate the poster. For unframed posters, flat storage is best. Keep them in acid-free poly sleeves. Refrain from handling the posters as much as possible.
- 3
  Repair posters with linen backing. Linen backing is a process that is best performed by a professional, as it involves removing acid from the poster and permanently affixing it to a linen or paper mounting. Linen backing can improve the brightness and clarity of posters and diminish creases.

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