Materials Needed:
- Burnt Paper
- Clear Adhesive Tape
- White Paper or Clipboard
- Magnifying Glass (optional)
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Before handling burnt paper, ensure your hands are clean and dry. Wear gloves if possible to minimize damage to the paper.
2. Document Condition: Examine the burnt paper for any loose ashes, soot, or fragile areas. Handle it as gently as possible to prevent further damage.
3. Secure the Paper: Carefully place the burnt paper on a flat surface, such as a white paper or clipboard. If the paper is fragile or in small pieces, use transparent tape to secure it to the surface, avoiding overlapping any writing.
4. Adhesive Tape Method: Cut a piece of transparent adhesive tape slightly larger than the burnt area. Gently press the tape onto the burnt paper, making sure it adheres well.
5. Tape Removal: Slowly and carefully peel the tape away from the burnt paper. As the tape is removed, the ash or soot covering the writing should transfer to the adhesive side of the tape, revealing the hidden text beneath.
6. Repeat: Repeat steps 3 and 4 as necessary, working in small sections, to reveal more writing.
7. Magnification: If the writing is faint or difficult to read, use a magnifying glass for better visibility.
8. Document the Results: Take photographs of the sections where you successfully revealed the writing. These images will serve as a permanent record of the recovered text.
Note:
* For extensively burnt papers, specialized techniques and tools may be required for a successful recovery of the writing. Conservators or forensic document experts can assist with these cases.
* If the paper is fragile or disintegrated, it may be best to consult a professional rather than attempting the technique at home.