How can I clean a vintage embroidery piece?

You may inherit a beautiful embroidered piece or score one in a vintage market. To clean your piece we recommend the following steps:

  • If the piece has great monetary or sentimental value, consider consulting with a professional textile conservator. Your local art museum should be able to recommend one.
  • Use your vacuum cleaner to remove excess dust. Cover the end of your vacuum hose with a piece of nylon stocking or light mesh. Use your vacuum cleaner at low power (if you can regulate). Start on the front of the piece, vacuum while keeping the hose end a little bit above your fabric. Do not touch the embroidery stitches. Repeat the process on the backside of your project.
  • If the piece is still dirty, you can try hand washing it. Follow the tips in our blog