As the Collections Coordinator at my museum, I have come across some
great beaded purses in our collection. Unfortunately, some have been
exposed to poor conditions in the past and therefore are falling apart
in places. One particular purse, a bead embroidered purse, needs
repairs, first to make it stable and then possibly to repair it. The
fabric has deteriorated in one spot, about two inches wide, and thus has
loosened the threads and beads.

 

I have asked a local woman to repair them once I have more information
on the guidelines for this type of repair. So far, my plans are to
stabilize the beads by tying them off. However, given the extent of the
damage, it may be difficult. I am not against repair, but my thoughts
are to repair it with a different colored fabric from the original and
also use different colored beads that will make the repair obvious in
case we would like to remove it in the future. Given that it is bead
embroidery, it's a little more difficult to repair, since it requires
both fabric and beading. Any suggestions or thoughts would be
appreciated. Also, some of our other purses with damage were made on a
loom. I would also appreciate any suggestions related to those if
possible or people to contact with beaded purses/bead knowledge.

 

Thanks so much!

Tracy Behrendt


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