Table 4 Sampling strategy for knitted caps at the Museum of London

1

No sampling will be considered where previous conservation treatments have distorted the item’s original shape

2

Items must have existing damage. Caps in pristine or good condition, without any existing areas of loss, will not be sampled

3

Areas for sampling are to be hidden from regular view. Sampling from the interior will be preferable to the exterior. External decorative features will not be sampled

4

Samples will be taken from areas away from key features

5

Multiple sampling of one item will be considered if the item has multiple parts, such as a separate lining, decoration or a strap

6

No sampling will be considered in or around a hole where most or all of the material exists around the area of loss (if the hole could be completely closed through conservation)

7

Sampling items which have not undergone obvious conservation interventions is preferred

8

No sampling will be undertaken where a proper assessment of the item is currently impossible (for example, if it has been been stitched to a mount)

9

The maximum sample shape and size is square (0.5 cm × 0.5 cm) or rectangular (1 cm × 2 cm)

10

Loose dust or hairs in the item’s storage box (which would otherwise be discarded) may be collected as samples