Three layers of paper facing are applied to the surface of the painting with water. As one team of conservators covers the painting with the first layer, made up of small squares of rayon paper, the next team applies a second layer of slightly larger squares of a Chinese paper over the first layer. The third layer consists of yet larger-sized paper. The painting is covered in plastic and felts, and the damp environment created allows the creases and wrinkles to loosen gradually.