Advanced Paper Conservation Techniques
Upcoming course information
| Date | 25-26 June 2026 |
|---|---|
| Time | 11-20 hours |
| Cost | $750 |
| Delivery | In person |
| Time commitment | 2 days |
| Registration closes | 15 June 2026 |
This intensive 2-day workshop introduces advanced methods used in professional conservation settings. Participants work hands on with objects and may bring their own items for assessment and treatment planning. The Short Course focuses on safe practice, decision making, and adapting techniques to different paper types and conditions.
- Large format objects: Approaches for washing, stabilising, and lining oversized works such as maps, posters, and architectural drawings.
- Gellan gum: Preparation and use of gellan gum for controlled moisture treatments, including cleaning and stain reduction.
- Deacidification: Preparation and application of deacidification solutions, pH testing, and evaluating long-term effects on paper stability.
- Bleaching: Practical exploration of stain reduction and colour correction using a range of bleaching systems, with emphasis on safety and ethical considerations.
Career potential
This course gives an introduction to a broad field that has applications in libraries, archives, museums and galleries.
Who should apply for this course
This short course is aimed at early career professionals in the GLAM sector who are looking to expand their applied knowledge and skills in in the care and conservation of paper.
Learning outcomes
- Participants receive recipes, preparation guidelines, and step‑by‑step procedures for each technique. The course strengthens confidence in advanced treatment planning and provides supervised experience with a variety of conservation materials and methods.
Course presenters
Learn from industry experts
Ian Batterham M App Sc, Materials Conservation
Lecturer in Heritage Preservation, University of Canberra
Ian Batterham has been working in the conservation field since 1980. He has a master’s degree in Materials Conservation and is a professional member of the AICCM. He currently teaches in the Cultural Heritage Conservation stream at UC. Prior to his retirement he was manager of conservation at the National Archives of Australia. He has had many articles published on a variety of conservation topics as well as two books. His interests cover the conservation of all manner of paper-based objects as well as preventive conservation.
UC acknowledges the Ngunnawal people, traditional custodians of the lands where Bruce campus is situated. We wish to acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of Canberra and the region. We also acknowledge all other First Nations Peoples on whose lands we gather.