Customising Conservation Equipment to Meet Specific Restoration Needs
- Willard
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
Examples of custom spatula tips...
Bespoke Tools for Exceptional Results
Every conservation project is different. From fragile textiles to centuries-old artworks, conservation professionals regularly encounter unique challenges that require specialist solutions. That’s why custom-made conservation equipment is not just a luxury — it's often essential.
At Willard Conservation, we have been designing and manufacturing bespoke conservation tools for over 65 years, working closely with conservators across the world to create equipment tailored precisely to their needs.
Why Customisation Matters in Conservation
Standard tools can be highly effective for general conservation tasks — but when delicate or unusual materials are involved, conservators often need tools adapted to suit the object in front of them.
Custom equipment offers several benefits:
Greater precision and control
Adaptability to sensitive materials
Increased efficiency
Improved safety for fragile artefacts
Enhanced user comfort during intricate processes
Whether it’s a heated spatula shaped to reach awkward areas, or a suction table adapted for large textiles, bespoke equipment helps conservators achieve better results while protecting vulnerable objects.
The Willard Approach to Bespoke Equipment
We collaborate closely with conservation professionals to understand their specific project needs. This process often involves:
Initial consultation to discuss challenges and objectives
Designing and prototyping modifications or entirely new tools
Testing and refining alongside the conservator
Manufacturing and delivering a solution that’s truly fit for purpose
This flexible, collaborative approach has resulted in some of our most innovative tools.
Real Examples of Customised Conservation Equipment
Bespoke Heated Spatulas
A conservator working with historic bookbinding required a heated spatula with an ultra-fine, elongated tip — fine enough to insert between delicate layers of paper without causing damage. We designed and produced a custom tip specifically for this purpose, giving them the accuracy and control standard tools couldn't provide.
Large-Scale Suction Tables
Textile conservation often involves working on large, fragile fabrics. We have produced custom suction tables with extended surface areas, variable suction zones, and integrated heating to help conservators clean and treat large-scale textiles safely and effectively.
Adaptable Hand Tools
For conservators working on unusual or three-dimensional objects, we have created bespoke spatula tips and ergonomic handles — all designed to improve comfort and precision during lengthy treatments.
Investing in Conservation Innovation
By investing in bespoke conservation equipment, professionals can overcome project-specific challenges while preserving artefacts to the highest standard. Our in-house design and manufacturing team at Willard Conservation are always ready to help bring a conservation tool idea to life — no matter how niche or specialised.
If you have a project that requires a custom solution, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us today to discuss your bespoke conservation equipment needs.
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