Frequently Asked Questions
Can you give me a quote over the phone or via email?
Not exactly. We cannot provide a confirmed quote until we can see your item(s) in person and evaluate a unique treatment plan. However, we can provide a ballpark estimate based off of description and photos. The more information and photos we have, the closer the estimate will be. All estimates given over the phone or via email are subject to change once we can review your item(s) in person.
How long do repairs last/Can you guarantee repairs?
Every conservation treatment we carry out is based on the current best practices according to the American Institute of Conservation (AIC)’s guidelines. Our goal is to maximize the longevity and stability of your object. However, we can’t offer an absolute, unquestionable guarantee due to the natural variability of materials and environmental factors beyond our control. We use museum-grade materials and reversible techniques whenever possible, and we always document treatments transparently. We are more than happy to advise you on the proper display conditions of a piece and offer recommendations for its ongoing care to aid in the longevity of our work.
Do you work on paper or textiles/fabrics?
Unfortunately, no. Paper and textile conservation are highly specialized fields, and we do not currently have a conservator trained in either medium. We recommend searching for a specialized conservator on AIC, using their Find a Professional search feature.
How long do repairs take?
Runtimes for repairs or conservation work varies by department, complexity of the project, size of the order, and other such factors. Any timeframes relayed by our staff are an estimate based on the information available at the time. Turnaround times for a project or order are subject to variables inherent in the conservation process. If you need your items returned to you by a specific date/time, please inform our staff. Rush orders are available for an additional fee and are similarly subject to the variables associated with the conservation/restoration process.
Can you appraise or authenticate my piece?
No. We do not offer appraisals as it is against AIC ethical guidelines due to a conflict of interest for conservators. We recommend searching for a credited appraiser from the International Society of Appraisers (ISA). However, we can sometimes confirm a material of a piece if we have expertise in that area.
Can I mail an item to you for repairs?
Yes, we accept pieces for repair in the mail. Please contact us before shipping your item(s) with a detailed description and several photos so we can provide a ballpark estimate of cost. We cannot confirm a quote until receiving the item, but we can provide an estimate to the best of our ability. We recommend using enough packing materials to “suspend” your item in the box and, when possible, suspending the box with styrofoam peanuts within an exterior box.
Return shipping starts at $50 and is subject to the size, weight, and fragility of an item. We use UPS for return shipping and cannot guarantee its safety in the shipping process, but handle and box your item(s) with utmost care and precautionary measures.
How much does it cost to repair this?
Each item brought to us is different in many ways. All factors, from the material of a piece to the extent of damage, can affect the cost of repair or restoration. Our quotes are based on the materials, labor, skill, and time required to complete repairs. However, repairs and conservation treatments will rarely cost less than $50 and can be as much as thousands of dollars.
Can I use my plate/mug/etc. after it has been repaired?
We offer “for use” treatments for items that are used to serve and eat food. Items repaired “for use” undergo a specialized treatment using food safe materials. These repairs may show to a slightly higher degree and cannot be guaranteed. We will always strongly recommend minimal usage and gentle handwashing with barely warm water. Frequent usage, water, heat, and food oils can and will break down the repair faster over time.
Do you offer transportation services?
We do not offer transportation services directly. We recommend the following companies for transportation local to DFW:
Unified Fine Arts — (214) 678-9101
Delivery Limited — (214) 261-1000
Craters and Freighters — (972) 840-8147
We also provide onsite services for both quotes and repairs. Please call or email with any further inquiries regarding onsite appointments.