Hi Sharon,
Hiring a textile conservator who is familiar with flags and banners might be the next best step. A conservator would be able to identify issues/suggest potential solutions and then prepare a report that will include a treatment strategy and cost estimate based on your need and intentions for the flag (display? storage?). The one-time fee associated with the preparation of a Condition Report and Treatment Proposal is both a cost- and time-efficient solution. AIC’s website http://www.conservation-us.org/ has a ‘Find A Conservator’ link which will help you locate a textile conservator with a specialty in flags/banners in your area.
best,
Virginia
