I have an ink autograph on cardstock that's faded. Is there a way to "bring it back" so it's dark again?

Question

I have a celebrity's autograph on an old theatrical poster (the poster is cardstock - not paper). Unfortunately, the pen used was a cheap one and the ink has faded so it is almost impossible to see - is there any way to "bring back" the ink/signature? Or is it gone forever? I also have a few cards that were signed with a felt-tip pen... these are now fading quickly. What can I do to restore the darkness of the ink?

Thanks for all your help!!

Answer 1

I don't believe you can restore the ink. Any attempt, in my opinion as a former collector of printed items, to restore the ink signatures on these items would most likely destroy the signature and the value of the items in question. The best that you can possibly do is to seal it in protective wraps (bags) made of mylar, with little or no air inside. This goes for the cards as well; in both cases try to keep the items out of ANY direct light, especailly sunlight, and in a cool, dark area free of moisture until you can consult a restoration specialist (art), although for signatures I don't think there are any out there.