Restoration · The fundamentals
2 min read
The Restoration Process
Restoration isn't one action. It's a sequence of careful stages, each adjusted for the card in front of us. Here's what that looks like, and why it takes the time it does.
01The stages
- Microscope inspectionEvery card starts under magnification, so we see what's happening at the surface and fibre level before deciding anything.
- Damage assessmentWe work out what's causing the issue and which techniques suit this card's stock, era and finish.
- Controlled humidityCarefully controlled moisture makes the card stock workable, across the whole card or just the affected area.
- Precision hand workHand tools handle the delicate, localised parts, adjusted card to card rather than run to a fixed setting.
- Heat, only where neededSome defects respond to a controlled heat stage. It's never a default step.
- PressingThe card is pressed, fully or in the area being corrected, to help it hold its improved shape.
- Drying and settingThe card gradually returns to a stable state. This is the stage that can't be rushed.
- Final checkWe check the card against what we set out to correct, then prepare it to come home.
02Why restoration takes time
Every card is assessed individuallyThere's no assembly line. The combination of techniques is decided card by card, not applied from a template.
Drying and setting can't be skippedRushing a card through risks undoing the correction, or causing new damage along the way.
We'd rather take the time a card needs than return it faster and risk a worse result.
03Turnaround times
Card Assessmentabout 1 week
Card Cleanabout 1 to 2 weeks
Full Restorationabout 4 to 8 weeks
Full Restoration with Expressabout 2 to 3 weeks
Turnaround starts when your cards arrive at the workshop. These are estimates and can vary with the queue. You can follow every stage in your live order tracker.
Keep reading
All articles →02Understanding Card DamageEach type of damage, and how well it responds to restoration.03Is My Card Worth Restoring?Good candidates, poor candidates, and how to decide.05Restoration & Card GradingWhat restoration controls, what grading controls, and whether a grade can be guaranteed.
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