Advice on removing tape/laminate

[Adam West]

I just won a holy grail of mine at a local auction which is a 1942 World Championship Program between the Washington Redskins and Chicago Bears.

The big problem....the previous owner either taped or laminated the entire program and framed it. The back has sticky residue and even the pages are taped over. The cover and back look nice and I'd be willing to bet that the pages inside are in pretty nice condition as well. Does anyone know if the tape, residue, etc. can be removed? I won't even attempt to remove it myself but if anyone has suggestions on someone who specializes in this; I would appreciate it. Also approximate price would help. The only person I can think of off the top of my head locally is a framer who does really good work, has framed some items for me and even fixed a couple of paintings that had slight damage. Maybe if he can't do it, will know someone. I bought it fully aware that this tape might have to stay on but would be a win if I can at least get rid of the tackiness on the back and somehow cut the pages free from the tape without damage. Thanks.

[Brazoo]

I'd try a little contact cement thinner on a q-tip in a corner, and if it works keep going with that --- I don't know much about pro-restoration, but I believe it gets pretty pricey.

Good luck!

[Mikey]

Try calling your local library

If you have a decent size library near you they might have had some preservation work done for them.

[livnxxxl]

Usually when it comes to tape or residue I always mention Goo Gone. That works well in most cases. I see now they even make a Goo Gone extreme which is supposed to be even better. However, I am not sure about this case. I would not want you to make something worse. Just a thought though.

[Brazoo]

Doesn't Goo Gone have that weird citrus smell? Maybe they make other kinds.

Personally, I really like contact cement thinner. It breaks apart the glue, evaporates quickly and leaves no residue. I've used it on a movie poster and it didn't effect the ink or paper at all. I would still try very small bits on a q-tip - a little at a time.

[MicromanZone]

Depends on the paper you want to preserve, but I have had good luck with 90% rubbing alcohol. But there will always be some kind of “shadow” where the glue came in contact with the paper; chemical reactions are like that.

But considering how much you care about this item, I would definitely consult a pro about this.

[Brad]

I don't have any advice but wanted to tell you CONGRATS on your score!! I know how much that means to you and how long you have searched for one so it's great to know you finally got it!!

[Adam West]

Thanks for all of the advice and kind words that I finally picked up something I have been wanting for years. I have decided to take it to a professional framing shop that I have done plenty of business with in the past. The owner is going to take a look at it and let me know if he can do it and if not recommend someone along with costs. Worst case is that the program can at least be opened to reveal the pages and remove the sticky residue on the back. I can't wait to see the inside pages and could always be on the lookout for an upgrade opportunity. Now it's the 1937 World Championship Program!!! I wouldn't mind owning the 1936, 1940, or 1943 even though the 'Skins lost but I know the 1940 especially goes for big $$$ because Da Bears killed the Redskins 70-0. I think it is in the history books for worst beating in NFL Championship history.

[livnxxxl]

Doesn't Goo Gone have that weird citrus smell?

Yes, Initially it does have a citrus kind of smell to it. However, In all of my experiences using it the smell never sticks around to linger.

[livnxxxl]

I have decided to take it to a professional framing shop that I have done plenty of business with in the past.

Probably the best move. Good luck and best wishes. Keep is informed on how things turn out.