Do copies of all of these restoration patterns get saved? Not necessarily just lettering patterns, but also part designs and maybe records of materials? I am asking because I am beginning to find these details of the museum 'process' to be somewhat interesting.
I try to do exactly what you are suggesting for work in my Freight Car Department as well as wood shop work for other departments. We also save and label specialty fixtures and jigs. So far I have two file drawers full of folders with notes and PO's, and three boxes and about 30 mailing tubes full of lettering stencils and transfer patterns.
Bob Kutella