I don't know if you got any other resposes (the pest control list is
not the best place to look for conservators) so I'll jump in.
Cleaning methods appropriate for the kinds of things you mentioned
can vary widely depending on condition and many other issues. For
example, are these things being cleaned for exhibition, for longterm
preservation, or to help prevent further insect attack? Are any of
the dirt layers from original use that might mean that they shouldn't
be cleaned off?
Ordinarily brushing is not a good idea for textiles and beaded
things. Ethnographic wool textiles and sillk textiles, for example,
may be too fragile to be brushed. In any case, a more common
superficial cleaning technique is vacuuming through screening.
Brushing through screening makes no sense.
I would suggest a consultation with a conservator, who should be able
to examine the collections, recommend cleaning methods, and teach
your staff how to carry them out. I don't think you need a textile
conservator specifically - well-trrained objects conservators should
be able to do this. It is also important to figure out if any of the
insect activity is active.
There is some literature on this topic, but a lot of it is for
conservators; some is about cleaning routines for house museums,
which won't help you.
Barbara Appelbaum
Hello,
I would like to know if anyone can recommend brushes and screens for
cleaning textiles (wool, leather, beaded leather) and baskets.
There's evidence of insects on the objects, as well as years of
dust/dirt. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Darsita
Senior Curator-CAP Collections
Huhugam Heritage Center
4759 N. Maricopa Rd.
Chandler, AZ. 85226
520-796-3500 ext. 237
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