They could possibly be made of nylon. In the 1950s DuPont was using the material for a multitude of items – other than hosiery.

Debra Hughes

Curator of Collections and Exhibits

Hagley Museum and Library

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From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Sara Pfannkuche
Sent: Friday, January 24, 2014 2:00 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [MUSEUM-L] Cleaning 1950s Drapes

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 Pfannkuche

Curation Committee

Laurent 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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