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TEXTILES
The do's and don'ts of handling textiles
Think about how you handle textiles. Handling them with care and commonsense goes a long way to preventing damage.
The most important rule for handling textiles is to keep handling to a minimum.
Whenever possible, wear white cotton gloves when handling textiles. They prevent the transfer of body oil and dirt to the textiles. This is not always practical, so as a compromise make sure your hands are clean: always wash them before handling a textile. This is particularly important with textiles incorporating metal thread, because acids from the skin tarnish metal.
Remove all jewellery such as rings, bracelets and necklaces, which could catch on the textiles and cause damage.
When you do handle textiles they should always be supported properly. Textiles which appear strong may, in fact, have areas of weakness which are not immediately visible. Regard all historic textiles as fragile.
When handling flat textiles:
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never pick them up by one corner. Always support the weight of the textile evenly;
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carry small textiles on a tray, in a box, or on a board;
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larger textiles should be rolled and carried on the roller, using the part of the roller extending beyond the textile to grip; and
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never try to move a textile by yourself if the size and weight of the textile indicates that you need two people. Carrying large textiles incorrectly can not only damage the textile, but can also put strain on the person carrying it.
When handling a costume, remember that it should never be picked up by the shoulders—always slide your arms under the costume and then lift.
Ideally, costume should be moved in boxes or on a board.
Don't carry items on a hanger without using your arms for additional support.
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The correct way to pick up a costume on a hanger.
Photograph courtesy of Artlab Australia
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Remember, accessories should always be supported evenly. For example, do not pick up a bag by its handle: use two hands to support it. Accessories should be transported on boards or in boxes. But there are exceptions to this rule. Use your commonsense to decide the most appropriate way to handle them.
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