Question Velvet Artwork damaged by bubble wrap

[emsingle]

Hello! I purchased a velvet cat portrait in London last week. The shop wrapped the piece in bubble wrap and I have just unwrapped it (was about to frame it). The bubble wrap has created a pattern on the velvet and I am worried it has crushed the velvet material. I have tried rubbing the dots with my finger out of the velvet but they are still present. Any tips? I believe the cat is drawn with charcoal and I am afraid to brush over the cat Would steam help like with velvet furniture or would it lift the charcoal off of the velvet? Very sad about this... Any advice welcome. Thank you!

 

[Nikodeumus]

There have been a few discussions on the forum about repairing velvet nap.
Someone will chime up with suggestions.
For the non-charcoal areas, a very soft fine bristle brush may help to raise some of the velvet, but probably not completely.

That was a big error by the shop you purchased that piece of artwork.
If you haven't already, contact the shop.
They may not be able to repair or replace the item, but should firstly compensate you for damaging your purchase, and secondly know not to do this for any other customers.

 

[Ylva]

Welcome to the G!

And oh my, I don't think I have ever seen a problem like this before.
Is the velvet a true fabric, or is it paper?

I am surprised that the charcoal has not completely disappeared onto the plastic (or maybe it has).
That shop clearly had no idea what they were doing.

I find it hard to give any advice without seeing this in person. I don't know if you have a good connection with a framer, but maybe bring it in to a framer and see what can be done.
However, I do believe that whatever method is going to be tried, this might be experimental and not guaranteed that it will be restored to original.
It might need brushing, steaming, and filling in any missing parts. Usually the work for a conservator though.

 

[Prospero]

I've seen this happen with oil paintings. Wrapping with the bubbles facing out would have been preferable.

I would return it and seek compensation. If you purchase artwork you shouldn't have to get involved in restoration from the outset.

 

[wpfay]

Yes, welcome to the G.

First, don't make this your problem by attempting to fix it. The shop caused the damage and should refund your purchase price, and they should be on the hook for attempted repairs (I seriously don't think it is possible).
The artist is somewhat morally responsible for doing this kind of work without researching how to properly handle and care for the finished product, and inform the retailer of same.

 

[Shayla]

Two possible approaches. One is, return for a refund. The other is to decide that you like it.
If you're selling it, you might get someone who loves it. In fact, they might ask for more.

 

[Rick Granick]

Or, simply re-title the piece "Kitten In Chicken-Wire Enclosure".
(Sorry, couldn't resist.) As Prospero and Wally said, return for refund as it ws irreparably damaged by the seller before shipping.
Rick

 

[Framar]

I love the kitty and am very sad at what happened to it. I agree fully that this is NOT YOUR PROBLEM - ask seller for refund - it is THEIR PROBLEM for wrapping it so badly and I might also have a few words for the artist if it is indeed pastel on velvet.