Tortoiseshell Combs
A tortoiseshell comb rests on a mount of 4-ply rag board that has been arched to match the shape of the comb. The arched top board is adhered to a straight board to hold its shape. The comb is blocked in place with Volara foam pads to prevent slipping. The comb may be lifted straight up and off the mount.
A design sketch for the construction of comb mounts.
Mounts were occasionally designed to nest together, to maximize available storage space.
Metal Combs
Metal combs are grouped and supported facing upward so they can be examined without being handled. The combs are held in place by sliding their tines into loops of cotton twill tape.
The arched foam supports are padded with polyester batting for a custom, cushioned fit, then covered with Tyvek to prevent snagging or scratching the combs.
The supports are attached to a lifting board, and the board is fitted into a box to serve as a handling device and to contain loose parts.