Treatment
The treatment plan for the tampan was made in consultation with the curator, registrar and the exhibition designer, after establishing the material and condition of the textile, and its role and context in the past.
Potentially damaging loose particles and insect debris were dislodged using a low-powered vacuum suction and removed with soft brushes.
Creases are lines of weakness that would eventually lead to breakage. A humidifier producing streams of cold air mist will soften the textile to reduce the amount of creases.
Cotton voile, dyed to complement the area of loss, will support the fabric to match the original texture.
‘Laid couching’ and ‘herring-bone’ stitches with polyester thread may be used to secure the cotton voile supporting the tears and holes.
To provide vital structural support and stability for the tampan to be displayed vertically in a showcase, the textile was stitched to an acid-free padded board.
