What lovely ideas these are, Cherry (reprinted below). Since you do commission work, may I suggest that somewhere in the book you put some care instructions? 1. Tell the textile content (cotton batiste, for example). Tell if it was preshrunk before making up. 2. Tell maker's name and location. 3. Tell to wash immediately after use, using Orvus (museum) soap and distilled water (if linen or cotton). Explain about stains that can show up later in storage, per your note below. Add that milk is often spilled, is invisible, and will eventually turn into a brownish stain. 4. It is not necessary to press after washing. Wait until it will be used next, because chances are the gown will again be washed. 5. A lot of washing and ironing causes as much stress as actually wearing a garment. (This is something all should know in regard to your own wardrobes). -------- Let me explain that ironing puts pressure and heat on woven over and under threads. This eventually causes weakened fabric or lace because of tiny fibers that break each time they are forced into each other. There is also pressure on seams and pleats. The most important thing to remember today is to use distilled water - no water from a tap is free from chemicals and/or minerals, nor is rainwater free from pollution. Recently, I've added to my standard warnings to be careful what water you put in a steam iron -- two different models of an expensive brand that I purchased had instructions *not* to use distilled water. I tried both irons with distilled water (because I didn't want polluted steam in textiles) and they both leaked badly. Never use a leaky iron! You'll not see this information in formal instructions - just remember to use logic when caring for heirlooms. The old-fashioned way, a dry iron and a pressing cloth dampened with distilled water, may be the best choice. There are electric Mini Irons that are held in the hand like a wand that can be used for lace ruffles. The plate is about the size of 1/2 a teaspoon, flattened. Test the temperature on your hand before using - in other words, just a little heat! Practice your ironing techniques first on things of very little value. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center --------------------------------------------------
In a message dated 1/29/2008 8:49:56 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: We are caring for one made for my DH's great aunt, about 1905. All the work except the lace is hand done. Lovely embroidery and French seams. We've been told that "all" the kids in the family have been christened in it but I wish we had a record of it's travels. To that end, when I've made gowns, I included blank books so that the history of the gown can be recorded. I also embroidered the year it was made in the hem. No, I didn't make the lace. These were commissions and there's only so much people will pay for. Be sure you use 100% cotton, including the sewing thread, polyester crumbles after a few years, and clean it soon after use. Baby spit yellows the fabric. I enjoyed making them. When you make something that is expected to last for generations after you're gone, there's a kind of immortality to it. Cherry Knobloch Jeri Ames Lace and Embroidery Resource Center **************Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape. http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise?NCID=aolcmp00300000002489 - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
