In a message dated 10/20/03 2:02:37 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
<< For rust to occur on steel, there has to be moisture and oxygen present (most people did the iron nail in the test tube experiment to find the conditions necessary for rusting at school), so I keep all my pins, whether stuck in pin cushins or not, in a shoe box with several small sachets of silica gel which are dried and replaced frequently. --------- Dear Lace Collectors, It would be wise to remember this line of discussion in connection with any old lace garments in your possession, if snaps, hooks and eyes, and button shanks might rust. These garments must be stored in a dry place. Safety pins, staples (which shops once used to attach price tags to things), and the like must be removed. Pale pastel basting thread can be used to substitute for whatever was the purpose of the safety pin. When I wet clean these items, I remove all the metals first. I use pastel-colored threads to "mark" where they are to be resewn. One reason for removal before wet cleaning is the threat of stains from the various metals that might be present. The other is that attachments can get caught up in lace and damage it. In some cases, garments need to be taken apart, washed in flat pieces, and then reassembled. In these cases it is best to take them to a professional who will make extensive notes and pattern instructions for putting an old garment back together. Remember to not store your antique lace garments in damp or overly-dry places (like a hot attic), if you wish to preserve them. It is best to keep them in space where the temperature and humidity do not fluctuate. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
