Cleaning / Restoration
Many of my 'collectable cotton' samples just need a very good clean - mainly to remove dirt & grime consistent with their age or storage conditions they've been found in.
Here's an "old recipe" I came across several years ago ... it works wonders as you'll see !
A typical piece of 100% cotton trim (amongst a box of assorted cotton laces, trims & fabric off-cuts ) - notice the age staining that 'browns' the fabric.
Many old cotton textiles have dirt & stains or are just grubby. Here's a box of them I'll be using to demonstrate this old-fashioned cleaning process ...
1. Add equal measures (1/2 cup) of commercial soap flakes & washing soda crystals into a large stainless steel saucepan (appx 6-8 pint).
2. Place fabric & lace in the saucepan & submerge them in cold water leaving sufficient space for them to move & stir gently (use stainless steel). I use an electric plate at a low-medium setting.
3. Heat up slowly, bringing to the boil & stirring at regular intervals. Keep a constant eye on the water's colour (see images below at 10 minute intervals).
4. Whilst bringing to the boil ... after 10 minutes ...
5. ... after 20 minutes ...
6. ... after 30 minutes ...
7. ... after 40 minutes ...
8. ... after 50 minutes ...
9. As soon as liquid is boiling, remove from heat (leaving any longer than this allows the dirt to be re-absorbed back into the fabric).
10. NOTICE ALL DIRT is now dissolved in the liquid (ie. colour of liquid!). Discard liquid safely (see right - note 11).
11. Here's a sample of the 'dirty water' - as it cools it sets to a jelly-like substance !
(NOTE: Remember to dispose of this liquid/gel safely - NOT IN A DRAIN)
12. Rinse all fabric in running water to remove excess soap etc. and if necessary, repeat process again. Sometimes this is necessary - just persevere.
13. THIS SECTION shows 6 images of this treated & cleaned fabric after pressing. (The cotton trim immediately as below is mentioned in my blog)
14. 1st batch cleaned & pressed - often starching is quite unnecessary.
15. 2nd batch cleaned & pressed
16. Ecclesiastical neck-wear
17. Handmade trims
18. Handmade trims