Restoring props... less value?

[niennumb1]

I'm in process to be receiving a prop after payments are all done on it. It is a screen used fabric piece, but I'm wondering if I would be taking value away from it if I fixed it up a little.

The only thing I'm wanting to do is to fix up some stitching that appears to be loose in a couple spots and one area that looks like there's a slight seam rip. I want to have it in a nice presentable fashion, but not jeopardize its value. I know museums fix up stuff all the time and I'm wondering if a little needle/thread will hurt this? It is age that made this happen and not out of being a battle-worn condition.

Other than that some stray little threads I would like to trim off. No cleaning or repainting of anything.

Thanks very much for your help!

 

[Sterlacchini]

I suppose the main question is, did it look damaged on screen or is this wear and tear from afterwards?

If it's wear and tear 'after the fact' like you say, surely it would be restoration?

 

[niennumb1]

On screen there isn't damage done to it. It just looks like something over time that has gone through some abuse that needs just a bit of TLC. It's over 18 years old, so I don't know where it was stored prior to my purchase, or perhaps that the way it came off set.

 

[xeno]

if you do repair work, try to use the same materials / look as the original one, and try to avoid it looking new / fresh.

try to color the thread before using it to match the original.
if you remove certain parts don't throw it away, keep it in a plastic seal bag together with the original prop.


.

 

[tain669]

I think it depend on what you want.If it's to get it back to new condition and depending on what the movie if that the prop came from then I guess its up to the owner

 

[KarlBud420]

Personally, I would leave it be. If it's over 18 years old, why would you want it to appear newer?

Once you have it in hand, post up some pics and you'll probably have more opinions in the matter.

Bruce

 

[Roger Ramjet]

I have dozens of Old Star Trek Convention Props in my collection, I would not consider restoring them in any way.

I like all the dents and dings.

Roger