Watermark Research

[Virginia Tech]

Dear Fellow List Members,
I am a Paper Conservator employed at the University of Southampton, England. I
am researching the methods and materials used to colour paper between the 1750
and 1920. The research is centred around one of the Jewish collections, held
here.
 I have surveyed the collection. My next step is to examine the coloured papers
in transmitted light to reveal the watermarks. The aim is to copy the
watermarks, to hopefully trace the mill that the paper was manufactured at, and
in this way, to maybe find primary evidence on the papermaking techniques used
at the mill.
 I wondered whether anyone on the list has any advice. For example, what is the
most suitable method for recording watermarks? Also, does anyone have any
requests for me to look at anything specific?
 The above is a rather brief and surface description of my research, if you
would like more detailed information please do not hesitate to contact me. 
 I look forward to hearing from you.
       Lorraine Finch.