Hello Listers, 

Please excuse cross-postings.

A vegetable tanned leather doctor’s bag (1775- shoulder bag style) needs treatment for mold infestation.  The front flap has lost flexibility, is brittle and curled (see attached photo).  

I would appreciate your suggestions regarding the eradication of mold spores that may remain after mechanical removal is complete. 

In addition, is there a safe way to soften the front flap to return its characteristic flexibility?  Can a PEG 400 solution be safely utilized?  Other suggestions?

With appreciation for your collective knowledge,

   Marie Schlag
   Textile/Costume Conservator
   Collections Care Lectures and Workshops
   Associate Member-AIC
   
   The Studio for Textile Conservation, LLC
    91 Tilden Road
   Scituate, MA 02066
   www.ConserveTextiles.com
   781-710-6658