The Evolution and Versatility of Conservation Spatulas

At first glance, a spatula may seem like a simple tool; slim, precise, unassuming. Yet in the hands of a conservator, the right spatula becomes an essential instrument of preservation. The history of the conservation spatula is a story of innovation, craftsmanship and adaptability, shaped by the evolving challenges of art restoration.

A Spark of Invention in the 1950s

The journey began in the 1950s, when Jack Willard, an engineer with a talent for precision, was approached by a trainee conservator with an unusual request: could he design a heated spatula to assist in delicate restoration work? Jack’s answer was the first ever commercial heated spatula, a groundbreaking tool that set new standards in conservation.

This single invention laid the foundation for Willard’s reputation as a trusted maker of conservation tools, a legacy that continues to this day.

From One Tool to a World of Possibilities

What began as a single heated spatula has grown into a collection of more than fifteen designs, each responding to a specific need in conservation practice. Many were born from bespoke commissions; unique shapes and tips crafted to solve a particular restoration problem that proved so effective they became part of the standard range.

The range now includes slender and flexible blades for precision work, grooved tips for corners and edges, miniature heated spatulas for fine detail, and a variety of custom tips for the most specialist tasks.

Specialist Heated Conservation Spatula Designs

Over the years, Willard has developed heated spatulas that address distinct restoration challenges:

• Grooved E Heated Spatula – Designed for working neatly along edges and corners when remounting easel paintings.

• Flexible Thin Blade Heated Spatula (Tacking Iron) – Ideal for lifting dry mounted works or removing pressure sensitive tapes without disturbing the surface beneath.

• 1EM Mini Heated Spatula / Tacking Iron – A compact, penlike heated spatula for precise applications, compatible with micro tips.

• 1EC Compact Heated Spatula – Shorter shaft and slimmer handle for close control, supporting all standard tips.

• Custom Tips (Types H, J, K, L and M) – Created from conservator requests for shapes that meet specific restoration needs.

  
  

Beyond the Spatula

Willard’s innovation has also expanded beyond spatulas themselves. The Hot Air Pen Set delivers temperature-controlled air to fragile areas where direct contact is not possible, while custom stands keep heated spatulas at the perfect temperature and ready for use throughout the day.

Built to Last

Willard tools are known for their exceptional durability. One heated spatula, made in 1976, was still in regular use over forty years later - a testament to the quality materials, precision engineering and deep understanding of conservation needs that define every Willard product. Read the full customer story here.

A Living Legacy

Today, the Willard team continue to craft every spatula and heated spatula in their UK workshop with the same attention to detail that began with Jack’s first design. Technology has advanced, the range has expanded, but the purpose remains constant: to provide conservators with tools they can trust to preserve cultural heritage with accuracy, care and confidence.

More Than a Tool

From its beginnings as a one-off commission to an internationally recognised range, the conservation spatula has proved to be far more than a simple hand tool. Whether it is a flexible blade, a grooved tip or a specialist heated spatula, each design reflects decades of experience and a commitment to helping conservators protect priceless works for generations to come.

Browse and shop the full range of conservation spatulas here.