We are pretty sure they are NOT barkcloth. We do have people working with us that are knowledgeable on fabrics (former dry cleaner and an upholstery restorer) which is why we know that they fabric is synthetic. We are concerned about shrinkage. I just want to make sure that the curtains are cleaned with long-term preservation and curation in mind instead of the easiest way possible (dropping off at dry cleaners). During this process, we are trying to educate the board on how a museum is run and how to best care for artifacts in a proper, professional museum way as caretakers.
Thanks for any and all help!
Sara PfannkucheCuration CommitteeLaurent House
Date: Fri, 24 Jan 2014 13:26:53 -0500
From: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [MUSEUM-L] Cleaning 1950s Drapes
To: [log in to unmask]
Or could they be barkcloth? It would
probably be a good idea to have someone with textile expertise check them for
you.
Candace Perry
From: Museum discussion list
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On
Behalf Of FM Jacinto
Sent: Friday, January 24, 2014
11:02 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [MUSEUM-L] Cleaning
1950s Drapes
Sara,
If you are talking about drapes authentic to the 1950s you are likely
talking about fiberglass. Poly didn't appear in most household products
until the late 60s. Older rayon would be a concern regarding drastic
shrinkage and shredding.
In that era fiberglass was washed by hand in laundry power or dish soap
and hung to dry. With all the exposure to the sun the fibers may now be
too brittle for anything other than a gentle bath. I don't speak as a
fabrics expert, rather as one with practical knowledge. Is it possible to
send a close-up photo?
FrannMarie Jacinto
On Jan 24, 2014, at 8:55 AM, Sara Pfannkuche wrote:
Hello Museum-L! I am on the
Curation Committee for the Laurent House, a Frank Lloyd Wright house in Rockfrod, Illinois
that will open as a museum on June 8. We are finishing up some work on the
house (new roof, cleaning woodwork, adding UV filters on the windows) and will
be bringing the furniture and drapes back in soon. My question, how would you
recommend cleaning the drapes. They are NOT cotton, but seem to be made with a
rayon/polyester fabric. We do not believe the original drapes were ever washed
(the house was inhabited 1952 through 2012) and we would like to do something
to clean them due to the built up grime which is noticeable. Any suggestions on
the proper way to clean them?
Thanks for your wisdom!
Sara Pfannkuche
Curation Committee
Laurent House
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