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Inside Spencer: The KSRL Blog

Books on a shelf

Welcome to the Kenneth Spencer Research Library blog! As the special collections and archives library at the University of Kansas, Spencer is home to remarkable and diverse collections of rare and unique items. Explore the blog to learn about the work we do and the materials we collect.

Getting Out of a Sticky Situation

One of the tasks most conservators find quite challenging is the removal of cellophane, masking, or other types of tapes from papers and books. These tapes, called “pressure-sensitive” because they adhere with just the pressure of one’s hand–no heat or solvents required–are wonderful for household tasks but should not be placed on objects of historic or artistic value. Tapes may turn yellow and stain the paper, turn brittle and detach, or get gummy and spread adhesive beyond the confines of the tape. When left in place, tape may damage the artifact to which it is attached, but sometimes it is so well attached that leaving in place is the best option.

Removing tape is challenging and should only be done by a trained conservator. Sometimes the process requires solvents that must be used in a fume hood. Other times we are lucky and the tape may be removed with a handy tool, the Zephyronics Art Air Pencil. It blows a steady, gentle stream of directed hot air, which in many cases is enough to soften the tape’s adhesive and allow the tape backing to be lifted. The gummy residue left behind is removed with a crepe eraser.

Close-up of air pencil on masking tape

Photograph: Removing tape with air pencil machine

Photograph: Using crepe eraser in final step

Top: Close-up of air pencil on masking tape.  Middle: Removing tape with air pencil machine
Bottom: Using crepe eraser in the final step. Click images to enlarge.

Even with the convenience of the air pencil, it’s a slow and precise job. So next time you are tempted to use a piece of tape on that photo, letter, or book, try to resist.

Whitney Baker
Head, Conservation Services

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