Dear Lace and Lace Equipment Collectors:
Since there has just been a discussion about acetate (and possible
dangers), you might like to hear about problems with celluloid. This
information
came from the October 2011 newsletter of the Lost Art Lacers of North
Jersey (USA). This local group has a collection of lace tools and laces,
which
are shown to the public in various ways, but especially at their annual
Lace Days.
The late founder of this group donated pieces that she permanently mounted
in displays of various kinds. They have been in this state of
"preservation" for several decades. Wahneta reported in the newsletter that
she
brought some tatting shuttles and lace to show at a meeting that were
destroyed
from being sealed in a display.
She reported that "celluloid is made from guncotton and camphor.
Guncotton is made from cotton soaked in Nitric and Sulphuric Acids. Never
store
celluloid in air-tight containers with other items. Celluloid will give off
a gas that will cause oxidation to form."
*You will remember my (Jeri's) advice to check lace collections on a date
actually put on your calendar each year. (My favorite recommended date is
Nov. 25th - St. Catherine's Day.) It appears that lace-making equipment
and any lace items stored with equipment also needs to be examined annually.
Not just celluloid tatting shuttles, but lace pillows, pincushions of all
kinds, wood and metal objects, etc. You will be looking for
deterioration, staining, holes, insects, mildew, discoloration, etc. If your
lace guild
has a collection, please share this information with the appropriate
leader.*
At the Costume Society of America's program in June, I (Jeri) saw the
damaging effects of cellulose buttons and decorative elements (like sequins and
beads) on late 19th to early 20th century garments. Deterioration cannot
be reversed or halted, only delayed with proper storage and handling.
>From a book reference: "Caring for Your Collections", Arthur W. Schultz -
General Editor, Abrams (publisher), ISBN 0-8109-3174-5, page 107.
"Cellulose nitrate was used to imitate ivory, bone, and
tortoiseshell.....Cellulose nitrate is highly soluble in acetone and melts when
touched with a hot
needle. Real ivory, bone, and tortoiseshell are not soluble, and they char
(burn) but do not melt when touched with high heat.....Celluloid artifacts
should be stored in isolation to prevent affecting nearby artifacts."
Jeri Ames in Maine USA
Lace and Embroidery Resource Center
----------------------------------------
Comments from Nancy in Connecticut USA:
Acetate is a derivative of acetic acid; acetate sheets are
probably cellulose acetate. Wikipedia says about cellulose acetate:
"Cellulose acetate film was introduced in 1934 as a replacement for the
cellulose nitrate film stock that had previously been standard. When
exposed
to heat, moisture or acids in the film base begin to deteriorate to an
unusable state, releasing acetic acid with a characteristic vinegary
smell."
Releasing acetic acid doesn't sound good for textiles...
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