Flaking paintings on copper supports can be extremely difficult to treat. This paper discusses some possible causes of delamination of the paint layer, includes observations on the presence of copper oleate beneath the paint film, and certain aspects of preparatory techniques. A range of conventional treatments and materials used for consolidation of these paintings is reviewed. Some effects of the copper support that may influence the choice of consolidant and method of application are considered, such as lack of diffusion of solvents through the support, reactions of consolidants with copper, and use of heat. Different types of flaking are identified, and broad suggestions for their treatment given. Fillers are mentioned briefly. The fundamental principle is that paintings on copper require specifically appropriate attention.