Conservation Resources

Conservation search engine
We have compiled a detailed online search engine that focuses on conservation issues. The search engine links to articles on any type of material preservation. It also covers related topics such as digital photography, cultural heritage, preservation plans, object supports, research, museum management plus many more topics on conservation. The search engine is called C.A.R.E. (Conservation Advice Research Engine).

Custom Search

Photo information sheets

Products and suppliers
How to store a fragile garment or textile
How to create rolled storage for flat textiles
How to create a padded coathanger
How to brush-vacuum an object
A simple guide to labelling museum objects
Simple conservation photography and documentation
Taking good photographs with available light and space, using a small camera
Scanning photographs
Conservation help notes
A simple mount for photos and documents
How to make a book support for display
How to make photo corners for display
Looking after silver
Dressing a mannequin
Safe in the Shed  (This booklet is about how to care for historic farm machinery)

Storing heirloom textiles

The Minnesota Historical Society has put together a series of excellent podcasts that demonstrate how to store heirloom textiles. They are presented by textile conservator, Ann Frisina and they provide detailed information about methods and materials needed for the safe long term storage of textiles. The topics covered are:
Part 1 - Materials You Need
Part 2 - How to Make a Padded Hanger
Part 3 - Storing Costumes in Boxes
Part 4 - Storage of Flat Textiles in Boxes
Part 5 - Storage of Quilts and Coverlets
Part 6 - Rolling Textiles in a Tube

All is not lost: the collection recovery book
This sturdy, spiral bound flip-book is for museums, historical societies and anyone who has items that have been affected by a disaster. Although there is plenty of advice on the web, you may not have electricity or access to a computer after a disaster. This book provides quick, basic instructions on salvaging materials damaged by water, fire or impact. 

Materials covered include books, paper, framed works, photographs, electronic materials, furniture, musical instruments, ceramics, metal and stone, organic materials, plastics and textiles.  more..

The Australian Dress Register
The ADR is an exciting, collaborative, online register which documents stories and photos of pre 1945 men's, women's and children's clothing from NSW. Museums and private collectors are encouraged to research their garments and share the stories and photographs while the information is still available and within living memory. The Register encourages people to consider their collections very broadly and share what they know about members of their community, what they wore and life in the past. The site offers many helpful information sheets and videos which offer guidelines for caring and managing dress collections.

AICCM
The Australian Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Material (AICCM) is a membership based organization mainly made up of professional conservators. It promotes a greater understanding of the conservation of cultural material in Australia. This website will give you information on how to: find a private conservator, conservation special interest groups, conferences, suppliers, publications, events and jobs in the field.

Display storage comes of age - Collections Council of Australia Ltd.

Contact Us
Please feel welcome to contact us for further information or with your comments.

Dave Rockell Acting Head of Conservation
Phone: 9217 0409 Fax: 9217 0498
Email: dave.rockell@phm.gov.au