The long established tapestry conservation methodologies widely used across the UK have been subjected to subtle change since their conception. In order to review these methodologies, an experimental method using a continuous applied load was developed at Historic Royal Palaces (HRP). The experiments aimed to investigate the mechanical effects of the conservation. Tapestry samples were prepared and received various levels of interventive conservation support. A continuous load was applied to the samples allowing any deformation to be observed. The experimental results showed that some intervention significantly reduced deformation in weak areas whilst conserving an undamaged tapestry as a preventive measure was not justified. This experimental method can be applied to study other large hanging textiles, and can be used by non-specialists as it is simple to conduct.