This module is an introduction to the care of costumes and textiles commonly found in Canadian collections. Fundamental information about fibres, structures, and manufacturing processes that affect the long-term stability of textiles is provided. Both internal and external agents of deterioration and typical signs of damage are described. A wide range of preventive conservation topics specifically related to textiles is explored. Basic conservation interventions are presented and demonstrated, and issues in ethical decision-making are addressed.
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
Composition and Identification Natural and man-made fibres, basic fabric structures, and manufacturing processes that affect the long-term stability of textiles.
Deterioration and Damage External agents of deterioration such as light (including ultraviolet radiation), soils, relative humidity, temperature, acidic materials, pollutants, mechanical wear from original use and subsequent poor handling, and inappropriate storage and display materials. Internal agents of deterioration such as dyes, bleaches, and finishes. Typical signs of damage.
Handling, Examination, and Documentation Proper handling procedures for flat textiles, historic costumes, costume accessories, and oversized textiles. Examination procedures and condition reports. Labelling textiles and applying accession numbers.
Preventive Conservation Preventive conservation topics including light, environmental conditions, maintenance, security, fire protection, storage, display, safe materials, packing and transit, pest management, and disaster preparedness and response. Specific procedures for preservation of textiles, where possible.
Interventions Basic conservation interventions, including safe methods of surface cleaning, textile conservation stitching for simple repairs, mounting small, light, flat textiles, and hanging textiles using the Velcro brand support system. Issues in ethical decision-making. Demonstrations and hands-on sessions.
Target Audience Individuals with a professional or personal interest in museum or heirloom textiles, including costume and textile guilds/organizations, antique collectors, museum staff and volunteers, and members of the general public.
Facilitator(s) Any of the following, depending on availability: Renée Dancause, Janet Wagner, Jan Vuori
Language English (written materials available in both official languages)
Enrollment Limits Minimum 10; maximum 15
Duration 2 days
