Broken but Scannable: Hands-on Conservation of Glass Plate Negatives

This practical workshop delivered by the Historic England Archive Conservation Team explores the conservation of damaged glass plate negatives. Participants will work directly with materials in a range of conditions, learning key techniques to stabilise and support fragile plates. The session focuses on making damaged plates safe to handle and suitable for digitisation, including scannable flush repair, pressure binding repair and quick temporary stabilisation using museum boards. Emphasis is placed on practical decision-making and developing confidence in real collection contexts, and the workshop includes a short tour of the Historic England Archive storage. Basic conservation skills are required, and participants are expected to bring their own tools. Damaged objects and materials will be provided.

Tools to bring:

Essential - pencil, 30cm ruler, Scalpel/ Craft knife/ Stanley knife, small scissors

Desirable - tweezers for delicate work, Squirrel hair mop (No.8 or larger)

Please provide proof of conservation skills when booking your place (job title and employer, conservation program name, etc.)

Cost: £150 for ARA members, £180 for non-members

Capacity: Workshop limited to 10 places only.

Any questions about this workshop can be sent to [email protected]