At RAVE FabriCARE, we undertake a large number of
garment restorations on an annual basis (Click
here for examples). Many involve wedding gowns and
christening gowns.
I recently received the following email from Denise C of
Phoenix, Arizona...
"Good Morning Stu,
Last evening my husband, Chris, spoke with you in regards to
restoring an heirloom skirt. I've been meaning to have this done
for some time. So needless to say, I'm thrilled to find someone who
specializes in this field in the Phoenix metro area.
The only history I have on the skirt is what my grandmother
wrote down. We stand corrected on the age. Based on my
grandmother's note - the skirt would be 154 years old. It was all
handmade by her grandmother (for her wedding) back in Poland.
I have no idea how it was stored through the years other than
how I received it after my grandmother's passing in 1995, which was
in a plastic shopping bag. However, I'm almost certain she kept it
in the same plastic bag or one similar, either in her storage
closet or in a dresser drawer.
It wasn't until this past summer that I placed it into a large
ziploc bag. Doing so might not have been the wisest idea but I was
hoping to protect it from any further deterioration or
accidents.
I would love to hear your professional opinion on what can be
done with the skirt."
Well, Denise, I think we can handle it despite the extreme
yellowing and deterioration of the fabric. We recommend that you do
not attempt to repair the holes - it's part of the "patina" on a
154 year-old garment.
You asked for my professional opinion. Here it is, reflected in
before and after photos ...
BEFORE
AFTER
How can I help you?