One of our clients recently brought in a vintage, embroidered
windbreaker patch that features a hydroplane. His question was
simple: what was the likelihood that we could restore the patch so
that it could be archivally framed.?
Apparently, the windbreaker was in such poor condition that it
could not be salvaged, but he was hoping that he might be able to
save the patch.
The patch was also in very poor condition: The fabric was very
fragile and it exhibited rust, grease stains and yellowing
associated with poor storage and care over the years.
In the lore of hydroplaning, Miss Seattle holds a special place
for fans of hydroplaning and raceboating. According to "This is
Hydroplaning" by Paul Lowney, Miss Seattle "was built by Jensen
Boat Works of Seattle in 1951. Designed by Ted Jones, the mahogany
craft is 28 feet long with a 12-foot beam and weighs 4,850 pounds.
She is powered by a Rolls Merlin engine. Her first competition was
the 1951 Gold Cup Race which she won. She won it again in 1954. In
a qualifying run for the 1955 Gold Cup, she turned a complete
backward flip and landed right side up, suffering considerable
damage. Her retirement was announced at the end of the 1958 season.
Her colors are mahogany with red and yellow trim and a checkerboard
tail fin and she races out of the Seattle Yacht Club."
The Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in
Seattle, Washington, features an incredible collection of vintage
hydroplanes spanning seven decades, including boats that have won
17 Gold Cups.
Over the years the museum's restoration shop has restored seven
of the most famous Gold Cup winners, including Miss Seattle, to
full running condition.
The results of our restoration far exceeded our client's
expectations. With the exception of a small area at the top left
and bottom right, the patch restored beautifully.
The following before and after photos reflect the
transformation.
BEFORE
AFTER
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