The only forms that are archival chemically are ethafoam forms like those
sold by Dorfman (or custom made ones), but the shape does not fit every
costume (and I personally find the shoulder shape to be very awkward).
Damage to costumes is usually more from ill fitting forms and bad handling
than from offgassing, so sometimes altered regular mannequins or standard
dress forms can be a better choice. Goldsmith carries some really nice dress
forms that have some historic shapes and also some that are small enough to
be easily padded out for proper fit for photography or display. When shaping
mannequins, pantyhose and batting are your new best friends for giving a
smooth barrier to prevent ripping out linings and to give proper support.
There are some guides and lectures available through Costume Society of
America and I would be happy to answer any questions to help.

Elizabeth Walton
www.waltonmuseumservices.com



On Fri, Jan 14, 2011 at 9:32 AM, Candace Perry <[log in to unmask]>wrote:

>  Dorfman – we have 5 or 6 – they are sturdy and excellent for 19th century
> dresses.  And not hugely expensive!
>
> Candace Perry
>
>
>  ------------------------------
>
> *From:* Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] *On
> Behalf Of *Michael Reuter
> *Sent:* Friday, January 14, 2011 9:19 AM
> *To:* [log in to unmask]
> *Subject:* [MUSEUM-L] archival mannequin distributor?
>
>
>
> Hi all,
>
>
>
> The Society is looking to purchase several archival mannequins for both
> exhibition & collections management use. Does anyone have a contact or
> business that they use to purchase these from?
>
>
>
> Thanks!
>
>
>
> Michael Reuter
>
> Curator of Collections/Registrar
>
> Milwaukee County Historical Society
>
> 910 N. Old World 3rd St.
>
> Milwaukee, WI 53203
>
> 414-273-8288
>
>
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