Ten Top Tips for handling large materials
1. Before you start, make sure you have a clean, clutter-free and adequately large work surface. it can be difficult to know how large the item is going to be before you start, especially if you are unrolling or unfolding it. Ask a member of staff for advice on how much space you need to open it.
2. Try to limit handling of items as much as possible, and try to handle items only by the blank parts.
3. Keep large flat items on the table. Unnecessarily lifting an item could cause creases or tears. If you have to lift a large item, do so by holding the opposite corners of the item, or preferably with the assistance of another person.
4. Some large flat items may be stored inside clear, polyester protective sleeves. Do not remove the sleeves without first asking a member of staff for permission. If an item is very fragile, it may not be possible to remove it from the sleeve.
5. Rolled items will need to be unfurled carefully. Two pairs of hands are often useful for large items, so it is a good idea to ask a member of staff for assistance. You can use glass or soft leather weights along the lower edge to hold the item in place. As you begin to carefully unroll the item, place weights in regular spaces along the edges (not on top of the printed or drawn image). Only unroll as much as you need to see at one time. Be mindful not to unroll items on top of other items, or have them hanging over the edge of the table.
6. Take care when re-rolling the item to remove the weights one at a time, making sure the edges are aligned, and to guide the item slowly back into its rolled state.
7. When unfolding items, use two hands to unfold each crease one at a time. Use weights to hold down pages, by placing them around the edge, but not on top of a crease or on top of the printed or drawn image. Always re-fold items along the original creases.
8. When you become absorbed in your work it is easy to forget handling techniques - be mindful not to lean on the materials.
9. When you are finished looking at a large item, take care to place it back into its correct enclosure, if it has one.
10. Report any issues or signs of damage to a member of staff, or ask for help or advice if you are unsure about how to handle something. We're always happy to help!
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