Conservation Tip 02: Storing large documents, maps and plans

Option 1 - Flat

If you have large documents like plans, maps and posters the best way to store them is:

1. flat (if you have the space!)
2. somewhere where they won’t get dusty and dirty.

Storing between large sheets of acid-free board is a good idea, or purchase a plan folder from an architectural/design equipment shop.

Option 2 - Rolled

If you don’t have the space, then consider purchasing some cardboard tubes or plastic plumbing pipe, wrap the tubes with aluminium foil and acid-free paper (to provide an archival buffer) and then roll your documents around them. This prevents damage from crushing and provides support.

This content was first published on our Archives Outside blog.