In a message dated 11/13/2014 4:29:47 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, ann.humphr...@talktalk.net writes:
...a piece of Honiton lace I made about 15 years ago .... has become slightly discoloured and has a small stain on it (no idea what). It is a very delicate piece and I would like to restore it. Ann, UK ----------------------------------------- To my conservation and restoration followers. Let us imagine I'll not be able to answer a question like this. Please go to the notebook you have been keeping - paper copies of my recommendations - and locate one that best suits Honiton. Verify the memo you found is in our archives. Memos appear to have been shortened and the type face changed, which is why I ask that you verify all the information is still there. http://www.mail-archive.com/lace@arachne.com To find the appropriate memo, insert in Search box "Jeri Ames, (insert memo date)". The Archives are very important to us, and we should all want to be sure they will work in future. If all is well, send the Archive information in a memo to Arachne. Thank you ! ------------------------------------------- Ann (and Diana): We always start with the least drastic approach. As to your requests, be sure the tiny Honiton motif does not go down the drain ! Cut a rectangular piece of soft tulle net (not the scratchy kind) or see-through fabric about 5" x 10" for a motif; larger for larger piece. Fold in half to make a square. Open, and put the Honiton in the center, then fold again to make a sandwich. Baste around the tiny motif (not into it) so it will not move from the center. It is now ready to float - in no more than one inch of Orvus soapy distilled water at room temperature. You did not say what has caused the discoloration. If it was from acid burn, the sodium lauryl sufate soap named Orvus (Procter & Gamble product used by museums) will neutralize that. Will some one in the UK advise where to get it in small quantities, please? The 5" net square is so small, you can use a glass bowl instead of a large basin. You'll be able to look at the lace through the net to see if it is cleaner. It can soak for quite a while, with regular monitoring. Start with 15-30 minutes. As the threads expand from water, they may release the unidentified stain. Hold the net sandwich to the side when pouring off soapy water and when pouring in rinse water. At the finger pressing stage, you can leave lace in the sandwich and finger press on a clean plate that you can then put somewhere safe, away from children and pets. It will dry quickly. How does it look? Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
