Before starting the treatment, a fact sheet was filled out for each icon. This described the object, its condition, and included photographs. When needed, Japanese paper and synthetic glue protected the icon's fragile layer of paint. This application consolidates the paint layer to stop inadvertant peeling. A reversible glue, methyl cellulose, binds the paper to the icon's surface.
Restorers also use Japanese paper to clean icons and murals.
Cleaning chemicals are applied through the paper which acts as a buffer and absorbs the dirt. Afterwards, restorers peel the Japanese paper away. These poultices do not stay on very long, perhaps 15-20 minutes. The pests could not be poisoned outright. Common agents such as methyl bromide, phosphine, and ethylene oxide change the colour of pigments.