What happens during oil painting restoration

People search for fine art restoration when a painting looks dull, has tears, flaking paint or old varnish that has turned brown. The process is methodical. Every step is documented so you know what was done and why.

Step 1: Condition assessment

We start with clear photos and, where possible, an in-person look at the work. We note canvas or panel support, previous repairs, flaking areas, tears, and whether varnish or dirt is hiding the original paint.

You receive a plain-English condition summary and a proposed treatment plan before any work begins.

Step 2: Surface cleaning

Decades of dirt, smoke and yellowed varnish can mute colour without damaging the paint underneath. Cleaning is done in controlled stages with materials chosen for the specific painting age and medium.

Step 3: Structural stabilisation

• Lining or relining weak or torn canvases
• Tear repair and thread alignment under magnification
• Consolidation of flaking paint so nothing is lost during further work

Step 4: Retouching and finishing

Inpainting fills losses so the image reads clearly again. On heritage work we use reversible methods. Varnish is applied only where appropriate for the period and future care of the piece.

Frames and private collections

We also restore frames and gilded surfaces. If you are dealing with insurance, probate or a family collection, ask about written condition reports for your records.