PRESERconVersATION
How to Care for your Textiles
Textiles are objects made from fibres of cotton, flax(linen), silk, fur, wool or synthetics which have been spun, woven, dyed, embroidered or matted. They might be wall hangings, upholstery, decoration or clothing. Many of these delicate things may have had a rough life coping with people, excessive light levels, daily changes in temperature and humidity, pests, as well as the inherent weaknesses of individual fibres.
Any textile, whatever the age or however it has been used should have thorough and periodic inspections, such as the annual maintenance of the Aubusson Tapestries hanging in the Library's foyer. This will aid the detection of fading, staining or insect damage that may need treatment or professional attention.
Listed below are ways you can correctly handle, store and display your valuable textile objects to prolong their life.
Handling
Handle all textiles with respect, particularly older ones, as the outward appearance can be misleading. The deterioration of strength in threads may not be visible and less than delicate handling can cause them to break. Where a fragile textile must be handled, use a support board or sheet to help prevent damage. It is not recommended that you attempt to wash or clean fragile or valuable textiles yourself. Always consult a textiles conservator to discuss cleaning options. Textiles conservators can be found in the Yellow Pages under Antiques- Reproductions &/or Restorations.
Storage
Textiles in storage should never be folded because sharp creases can weaken the threads. Large carpets, rugs or tapestries should be rolled, preferably around a large cardboard or plastic cylinder which has been wrapped in acid free paper, when being moved or stored. Costumes, such as wedding dresses, can be wrapped with acid-free tissue paper and padded out with scrunched up tissue paper or Dacron padding in the folds to avoid sharp creases and then stored in a box.
Display
Tapestries and rugs to be displayed on a wall can be hung in two ways. Cotton tape can be sewn to the top edge and a rod inserted for hanging, or attach the tapestry by Velcro to a wooden strip which is secured to the wall. Always sew the loopy part of Velcro on the textile and make sure the hook part is securely attached to the wooden strip. Never use tacks, nails, pins or similar metal items.
Banners or flags that have weakened fibres may be supported by sewing on to fine nylon netting. This method can also be used to help support lace, embroideries and other fragile items.
Costumes can be displayed on old dressmakers models or forms can be made from wire and Dacron padding. Strong, light-weight garments may be hung on well-padded coat hangers. Never use metal or clip style clothes hangers.
Daylight and artificial light (tungsten and fluorescent) combined with excessive humidity can cause astonishing damage to fabrics. Colours will fade dramatically and fibres will weaken and eventually break down. Never display textiles in direct sunlight. It is better to bounce lighting off the ceiling for a gentler, safer illumination. Displaying items behind acrylic sheet with ultra-violet protection(Perspex, Plexiglas) will cut out much of the harmful light.
Although textiles can be fragile it is possible to preserve and enjoy them for many years.
