Do you have any insight, information, or opinions on storing ethafoam pillows and Simone Toussou's sawdust packed pillows in this type of container? I would not want to damage my pillows by possibly off gassing from the storage container. I do think that cardboard boxes off gas. Is this a wise choice to store pillows in cardboard boxes also?
Dear Lacemakers, This question (above) came to me privately. Perhaps my comments will help. Actually, I have two of these boxes, from WalMart, purchased about two years ago - to use for originally-intended purpose. Mine measure 26 1/2" square at top inner opening, and are tapered in slightly at the bottom. They are approximately 8" deep without the lid. The lid clicks closed, but is *not a totally tight fit*. Thus, a bit of air should circulate. That might mean that moths and insects can enter, so if you have problems with either - adjust your thinking. However, do *not* put mothballs inside plastic containers. They will chemically react to the plastic. There is no perfect environment for all materials that might go into the making of a lace pillow. Often, there is a wood base and wood used in other parts (such as the sawdust mentioned in the query above). There are various paddings and various coverings and trimming materials. There may be metals used for construction and trimmings. I'd suggest storing pillows made of like materials together, if more than one fits in a box. In the case of the original question above, that would mean put the ethafoam pillows together. The real question should be - what is the best of all possible choices for your circumstances? If you wish to keep pillows in any kind of enclosed storage, I do believe they should be checked regularly -- at least once a year -- for any signs of deterioration or insect infestation. Perhaps you could make a custom of doing this and other lace-related maintenance on St. Catherine's Day, November 25th. Put it on your calendars, so you do not forget! If you live in a hot place or a damp place, you already know what precautions you must take. And, how frequently. Remember everyone giving advice -- this is an International list -- and that means many different circumstances. I would suggest placing the pillow, if it fits, inside a cotton pillowcase. That will not protect from wood if it is part of the construction of the pillow (often the case) but it will offer some protection from any chemical off-gasing from the plastic container, from smoke damage if you create smoke when cooking, from tobacco products, or from fireplace smoke. Plastics draw smoke to their surfaces, so the boxes need an annual bath (on St. Catherine's Day). I think these boxes would be an excellent solution for many people with limited storage space. They will protect nicely from being knocked around and from dust and pet hair that likes to settle in nooks and crannys. The boxes can be stacked if you buy boxes all from one manufacturer, so will utilize space economically. Their height (add 1" for lids which may be of various depths based on who manufactured) allows for storage under some pieces of furniture. Whatever you do - please do not store your pillows in hot attics or damp basements, and do try to store them in rooms where the temperature/humidity does not change rapidly. Pillows should last a long time with reasonable care. Some rather old pillows still look wonderful in books of antique tools and in collections. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace & Embroidery Resource Center - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
