Cleaning

I take great pride in restoring items through delicate cleaning methods. From removing layers of accumulated dirt and grime to carefully reviving surfaces with precision and care. Whether it’s the cleaning the delicate carvings or removing years of grime off an item that has been stored in an attic for years, I approach each project with the same dedication. I use a combination of time-tested techniques and modern innovations, constantly seeking the best methods to achieve the best results. Here is a selection of items I have worked on recently.

Oak Figures

Part of a large collection of early oak carvings, extensive conservation treatment to clean and consolidate in preparation for display.

Owner: Private

Georgian Frame

Georgian Frame project for National Trust at Seaton Delaval Hall, set of full sized portrait frames needing cleaning while the paintings are being treated.

Owner: Private

Empire Inspired Frame

I had the privilege of working with a private client to revive a magnificent empire-inspired frame. Many years spent in a cellar and an aging coat of gold paint covering the original gilding had left the frame shrouded in darkness, robbing it of its original lustre. However, through a meticulous cleaning process, I was able to recover its true radiance and bring it back to life.

Understanding the delicate nature of frame restoration, I employed careful techniques to ensure the preservation of its intricate details. With utmost precision, I removed years of grime, dirt, and discolouration, unveiling the frame’s true splendour.  

The transformation is remarkable as the frame’s hidden beauty emerges, showcasing its exquisite craftsmanship and impeccable design. My cleaning methods not only restore the frame’s visual appeal but also provide long-lasting protection, safeguarding its integrity for years to come.

Owner: Private

19th Century EMPIRE Frame

This magnificent frame had endured years of exposure to airborne pollution, concealing its true nature and diminishing its grandeur. But with careful handling and expertise, I embarked on a mission to restore its original beauty. 

Layer by layer, I carefully removed the accumulated grime, dust, and pollutants that had obscured the frame over the years. Each stroke revealed a glimpse of the frame’s true essence, gradually bringing it back to its former glory.

Owner: Private

CARVED 'PITTI PALACE' STYLE FRAME

I understand the power of a simple cleaning process to revive and restore the timeless beauty of items like frames. 

Recently, I had the privilege of working with a private client who owned a stunning 19th-century frame in the distinguished “Pitti Palace” style. Over the years, the frame had accumulated layers of dirt and grime, obscuring its intricate details and diminishing its visual impact.

However, through a meticulous cleaning project, I was able to bring it back to life. Delicately removing years of accumulated dirt, revealing the frame’s true splendour.

Owner: Private Client

Late 17th Century Frame

I have had the honour of working closely with Stockport Heritage Services on a remarkable restoration project. The task at hand was to revive a late 17th-century frame belonging to the esteemed “Marple Hall Portraits” collection. This particular frame housed a portrait of an unknown man, a captivating piece of history awaiting its true reveal.

Upon examination, it became clear that the frame had been heavily coated with layers of overpaint, concealing its original silver surface. It was my mission to remove these layers and uncover the frame’s hidden beauty. With steady hands I embarked on the restoration journey.

Carefully, layer by layer, I delicately removed the overpaint, revealing the frame’s true nature. As the silvered surface emerged, its lustrous glow emerged.

The restored frame, along with its counterparts, were showcased in the newly restored “Staircase House” in Stockport, a testament to the historical significance and artistic value they hold. It is a privilege to be part of this endeavour, preserving the legacy of these remarkable pieces for generations to come.

Owner: Stockport Heritage Centre

19th C Scotia Frame

Reviving the timeless elegance of this 19th-century Empire-derived scotia frame with a professional clean really brought it back to life. The Private clients I work with really understand the value of preserving the beauty and historical significance of these cherished pieces.

Over the years, the frame had accumulated layers of dirt and grime, dulling it significantly.  However, through a meticulous process of cleaning, I removed the years of build-up and restored its original radiance.

Owner: Private

Frame for Mrs Morison of Haddo

Throughout the years, the frame for “Mrs Morison of Haddo” by Allan Ramsay had endured the accumulation of dirt and grime, causing its highly reflective surface to dull. Through a careful and detailed cleaning process, I have successfully eliminated the years of build-up, unveiling its original radiance once again.

The image here shows one half cleaned and one half before cleaning started, as layers of dirt and grime were gently lifted away, the true allure of your frame came to light.

Owner: Private

Have you got a project in mind?

Ready to bring your treasured item back to life? 

Contact me today and let’s get started.