Restoring faded ink writing

[jeanyb]

Hi
Can anyone suggest how to have faded ink writing restored (or identified) on a leather case? As far as I know, the writing wasn't etched or engraved, just stencilled. The case was found in Normandy in 1942.
Many thanks
jeanyb

[blueroseking]

Might I suggest taking a photo of the item, and having the writing enhanced in photoshop? I'd be happy to give it a go, you'll need to use a good quality digital camera.

[Wak]

Might I suggest that you hold the item underneath an Ultra Violet Lamp as there might possibly be a chemical in the original ink which will fluoresce and at least give you the opportunity to read the inscription?
Sounds like a job for the Forensic Dept or a specialist laboratory to me if the original is too feint to read!!

[Mortartube]

I'll also go with the UV lamp idea or also under red or blue lighting which may show up the outline of the letters. Can you tell what colour the writing was originally?

The digital photo idea is also good. Try turning the image into a negative on suitable software. All may help.

[jeanyb]

Thank you for your suggestions - all very good. I'll try the u v light first - there's one at a museum close by.
Thanks once again.

[mjwman]

I am sorry to say that UV is not the answer.
It is the opposite direction you need to go.
In the days of film Infra Red fiilm would have been the way to go. Or Kodak Technical Pan film 2415 but now long gone.

Try photographing with a deep red filter.