TEXTILES

Self-evaluation quiz

Question 1.

Textiles can be damaged by:

a) being creased—this can lead to splitting of the textiles;

b) light and UV radiation, causing fading and setting off chemical reactions which weaken the textiles;

c) mould, insects and pollutants;

d) perspiration;

e) all of the above.

Question 2.

When handling textiles:

a) try to touch as little of them as you can—always pick them up by one part only;

b) fold them as neatly and as small as possible to make handling easier;

c) never pick them up by one corner and always support the weight of the textile evenly;

d) have clean hands.

Question 3.

To label a textile:

a) write in permanent ink on the corner of the textile, or on the collar of the costume;

b) write in permanent ink on a sticky label and stick this to the textile;

c) machine-sew a label to the textile;

d) write the label onto cotton tape and attach this to the textile with one or two hand-stiches.

Question 4.

Which of the following statements are true?

a) Historic costume should not be worn if you wish to preserve it.

b) Body oils and perspiration will not damage textiles.

c) The stress and strain of wearing a garment can cause a great deal of damage.

d) Historic costume should be worn on festive occasions especially those involving food and drink.

Question 5.

Small flat textiles:

a) should be stored in Dacron sausages;

b) should be stacked one on top of the other;

c) should always be rolled;

d) can simply be stored flat, with interleaving if items are to be stacked.

Question 6.

When rolling a large textile for storage:

a) choose a roller that is longer than the item is wide;

b) cover the roller with acid-free material to protect the textile;

c) select a roller with a small diameter so that it does not take up too much space;

d) fringes and tassels should be kept straight.

Question 7.

When displaying textiles:

a) be aware that light and UV radiation are the greatest enemies of textiles;

b) use acid-free materials in the display systems;

c) ensure that your textiles are well supported;

d) protect your textiles from fluctuations in relative humidity and temperature, dust, insects and pollutants;

e) all of the above.

Question 8.

Historic costume can be:

a) stored on wire coat-hangers;

b) displayed safely on mannequins if measures are taken to modify the mannequin to the appropriate shape;

c) worn regularly with the right undergarments;

d) protected in storage by hanging them on padded hangers and covering them to keep off dust.

Question 9.

To clean textiles:

a) proceed with caution and use a vacuum brushing technique;

b) wash them in washing machines;

c) use the full suction of your vacuum cleaner to ensure you remove all the dirt;

d) use a carpet beater.