Linen backing can dramatically improve the overall appearance of a poster and it can substantially increase its value. It is the preferred archival method used when conserving and/or restoring a poster. Almost any flaw can be fixed so you would never know it was there.
On the left is a typical folded One Sheet in its natural state, the way it was issued. On the right is how it appears after linen backing. The original creases and folds are made virtually undetectable from normal viewing distance (in most cases). They can still be seen but only upon very close inspection.
Some of our posters have already been Linen Backed. Those that haven't, we can have done.
We ONLY use world renowned paper conservation professionals that are considered to be the best in the business. They do the work for all the major movie studios and auction houses around the world.
Please keep in mind that all linen backers are NOT created equal. We have seen some horrible results from those that claimed to be professionals but obviously weren't. DO NOT LET YOUR LOCAL FRAME SHOP ATTEMPT TO DO IT!
If any restoration is done it is usually very minor and involves touching up the fold lines to make them less noticeable. This can actually increase the value.
Any extensive restoration may cost extra.
After linen backing a poster can be rolled for shipping and is ready for framing.
The process usually takes 2-4 weeks. Prices range from $185.00 for a rolled one sheet, to $695.00 for a six sheet. A typical folded one sheet will cost $295.00 and includes fold line touch up with typical minor restoration. Please contact us for further details.
Linen Backing is usually reserved for PAPER posters, not cardstock posters like inserts and half sheets. To preserve or PAPER BACK a cardstock poster, please call Dave at 602 309 0500 for more information.
Linen Backing and Restoration:
How Does It Affect Value?
Linen backing is NOT recommended for newer posters, double sided posters, or for older rolled posters that are still in Near Mint Condition and need no restoration.
For older folded posters: If you don't like fold lines and/or it is not in what you consider "displayable condition", and you purchased it mainly to display and enjoy, and you are not very concerned about its "investment potential", then we recommend you go ahead and have it linen backed and preserved. If you are a die hard movie poster investor/collector, you may want to think twice about having an EX C8 or better condition poster backed. There is a belief among some investor/collectors that EX C8 or better unrestored posters will command a premium over restored/linen backed posters.
If a rare poster has some unsightly flaws, linen backing and restoring it will most likely increase it's value.
If a rare poster is in EX C8 condition or better with no real major unsightly flaws, linen backing will either have almost no affect on its value or slightly decrease its value. This really depends on how rare the poster is.
There are two types of buyers of vintage movie posters: collectors and non collectors. A non collector buys just one or a few posters for a home theater, a gift, or whatever. At least 50% of our sales are to non collectors. We have found that non collectors generally prefer linen backed posters. Most true "Collectors" of vintage movie posters would prefer an unrestored poster over a restored one. Most of these collectors still collect linen backed posters however because many titles are so rare and few have survived in great condition.
The bottom line: Linen backed posters sell better than non linen backed posters because they appeal to both collectors and non collectors. In most cases, you can't go wrong if you have your poster linen backed.
If a poster is ROLLED in NM C9 condition, it probably will not need any additional restoration other than straight linen backing.
If a poster is FOLDED in NM C9 condition, it may need slight additional restoration (most likely, touching up the fold lines).
If a poster is in EX C8 condition, it may need additional restoration. Please call us for details.
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