need help in fixing a painting...?

Question

I have an oil painting that has a bulge from being stored against a piece of furniture. Can the canvas damage be repaired, and if so, what method would you recommend?

Answer 1

If the canvas is not torn then --- on the back side use a warm NOT WET moist sponge , dampen the entire BACK of the canvas until evenly moist , then with a blow drier about 10-14 inches away from surface,using a fanning motion, begin drying from the frame around in circular pattern working your way to the indentation. (use the indentation as the center of your circle or oval ....) this will stretch and pull the dented area flat . DO NOT OVER HEAT THE CANVAS !!!! take your time and you will have good results. If you do not wish to try this take it to a Framer or a professional $$$$

Answer 2

depending on the worth of this painting or its sentimental value you may want to have a pro do it and its will cost ya...... if yu want to try mix up some white gesso with about half hot water a small amount will do... paint that liberally over the BACK SIDE of the bulge and hit it lightly with a hair dryer to speed up the drying and the contraction of that material it may take several coats but unless the bulge is really bad you will have a fair amount of success good luck and happy new year

Answer 3

Is it torn?If not just put the bulge between two books or other flat objects and leave it on a flat surface,and see what happens.Also check to see if it needs to be cleaned.You could also take it to an art restorer and see if he/she could repair it.That could be expensive but if the painting is valuable,it might be worth it.Thanks.

Answer 4

Don't try to do this yourself if the paintng has any value -- either sentimental or monetary. It's a bad idea to experiment on restoration techniques on something you wish to keep (or sell).

I would contact a competent restorer, myself, since the age and specific formulation of the oil paints will effect the possible solutions.