Repairing Damaged Pictures - Use an Accredited Art Restorer or DIY?

Picture restoration in London can be a costly business. As a result, if you have an art collection that is prone to damage and wear and tear, you may be keen to avoid bringing in an accredited art restorer unless strictly necessary. While we sympathise with this view at Simon Gillespie, we're also keen to point out that the services of an accredited art restorer are always advisable!

An accredited art restorer is skilled in the art of picture restoration, having spent years training, honing and perfecting their craft. To bring a damaged painting to the team at Simon Gillespie, or indeed any other accredited art restorer, your treasured canvas will be returned in perfect condition. If for any reason you are determined to tackle this task at home, however, it is possible.

The most common need for picture restoration in London is due to smudged paint or discoloured, stained varnish. This can, in theory, be resolved. Dip a cotton pad - or, better yet, a cotton bud - in a solution of soapy water and olive oil. Very gently apply this solution to the smudge.

If this does not work out as you hoped, do not keep rubbing. Equally, be prepared for the fact that you may cause more damage, not resolve that which has already occurred. In either instance, do not hesitate. Call in the services of an accredited art restorer. This should also be your first port of call if you spot any flaking of the paint on your canvas.

Speaking of a canvas - you may be able to take a look at repairing this at home. If your canvas needs to be tightened up as it is growing slack, fill a spray bottle with pure water and apply this to the back of the canvas. Let the canvas dry naturally in the sun, and any loose weave with resecure itself. Again, though, only tackle this task if you are completely confident. Any kind of picture restoration, in London or elsewhere, should be handled by an accredited art restorer. To take on the work yourself is always a potential hazard.