Private Collection

Treatment Summary: The 1861 family history sampler by Sarah Beach was carefully assessed and treated to stabilize both the linen ground and delicate silk embroidery. Testing showed that the green silk thread in the border was highly sensitive to moisture and prone to dye bleeding, so cleaning methods were adjusted to protect these areas. Surface grime was gently reduced using dry cleaning techniques, while only selected linen areas were carefully wet-cleaned with controlled solutions, avoiding any contact with vulnerable embroidery threads. Weak or damaged areas of the textile were reinforced from the reverse using fine support materials, with displaced threads carefully realigned and secured. After treatment, the sampler was stabilized, visually unified, and safely mounted on a supportive display board with protective fabric layers and a reversible mounting system designed to reduce stress on the textile while allowing safe exhibition and long-term preservation.

Denison University Libraries

Treatment Summary: The multi-component costume worn by Hal Holbrook in his one-person Broadway production Mark Twain Tonight underwent comprehensive conservation treatment to stabilize materials and preserve evidence of long-term use. The jacket and vest were wet-cleaned and reshaped, while structural weaknesses across the suit were stabilized with reversible stitched and underlay supports, retaining original and historic repairs where stable. Associated elements—including cravats, shoes, suspenders, and wig—were individually treated through tailored approaches such as cleaning, adhesive reduction, consolidation, and custom supports, with priority placed on preserving fragile materials and original appearance. All components were rehoused in custom storage mounts and boxes to ensure long-term stability and safe handling, with display recommendations provided for particularly vulnerable elements.

Catholic Diocese of Cleveland

Treatment Summary: This ceremonial canopy from the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland was treated with the primary goal of enabling continued safe use while improving structural integrity and appearance. Treatment focused on stabilizing goldwork embroidery and embellishments and replacing the heavily degraded central panel with a newly constructed, reinforced section using custom-dyed Baronet satin and internal support layers for increased strength and longevity. Original elements, including the dove appliqué and side panels, were retained and reattached, while compromised couching threads were replaced and vulnerable areas secured with supportive overlays and stitching. The canopy was rehoused in a custom storage and transport system with detailed handling guidelines

Quote: Emily Ahlin, Director of Archives for the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland, relayed, “We were really pleased with the final result - the baldacchino was vibrant before, and now it is even more striking without all the stray threads hanging all over the place! It is also much sturdier, and I am more confident in how to properly store it when it is not in use. It will last well into the future thanks to the work completed by the ICA.”

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Cincinnatti

Treatment Summary: The two-part textile artwork RagGonNon, comprising Journeys I and Journeys II, at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center was treated over 11 days by two conservators, with the primary goals of cleaning and stabilization. Surface cleaning was carried out using soft brushes, HEPA-filtered vacuuming, and cosmetic sponges, significantly reducing accumulated dust and particulate soiling while protecting fragile elements. Minor structural issues were addressed through localized maintenance, including reinforcement of an open seam with stitched netting and consolidation of lifting paint with conservation adhesive. Areas of light-induced fading and embrittlement were documented and left untreated, as the damage is irreversible, and recommendations were made for long-term preservation and display.