Abstract: A method for preparing a stabilized nitrocellulose article includes providing a nitrocellulose-containing mat of fibers. The nitrocellulose-containing mat of fibers is treated with a solution that comprises a solvent and a stabilizer to produce the article. The stabilizer is soluble in the solvent. The solvent dissolves the stabilizer and the nitrocellulose in the nitrocellulose-containing mat of fibers is substantially insoluble in the solvent at ambient pressure and temperature. An inflatable bag comprises a shell and the stabilized nitrocellulose article. The shell is formed from a foldable material and has an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface defines an interior cavity of the inflatable bag. The stabilized nitrocellulose article is disposed upon the inner surface of the shell in the interior cavity and is foldable in conformity with at least one fold of the shell.