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Collecting newspapers cuttings is a great way to help remember the past but as sure as your memories start to fade, so will the paper.

Paper is made from wood fibres so will naturally deteriorate (becoming yellow and brittle) over time and this process is dramatically quickened by exposure to light and acidic conditions.

If you are going to frame the article be sure to use an acid-free backing and glass that has UV ray protection. Even with this glass it is best to hang the clipping on a wall that is not exposed to direct sunlight.

If you are collecting a scrapbook of clippings it is best to place them separately in a polyester film folder with a sheet of alkaline buffered paper behind. These folders should then be placed in file folders/boxes that are free from acidic materials. Store them in a cool space and be sure not to expose them to water.

Paper can often turn brittle after many years of storage in dry conditions. If you are unhappy with this you should place your document in humid conditions for several hours for the flexibility to return. Prolonged exposure to damp conditions can effect the paper in a negative way.

Laminating newspaper clippings is not recommended as this process may cause more harm than good.

If the clippings are already damaged you can save the information by photocopying them (onto acid-free paper). It is recommended to create 'back-ups' of all of your clippings in this way.

Learn more about this author, Oliver Gaywood.
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