I think this is an important point. Storing an antique that perhaps cannot be cleaned, would not do best in plastic as you are sealing in whatever is in it already, though air exposure overall isn't ideal either. What I have shared is for items one can clean, in techniques museums use for cleaning and then storage, and thus what one could use for one's own creations and heirlooms, after the item is clean. (White cotton gloves are typically used in handling items in museum demos I have seen, as even touching it with hands can add oil and proteins that contribute to later contamination. General information to help, but specifics can vary. I note that many of us have stored something thinking we will get back to it before long, and years pass. I wash all my knitted lace wearables twice a year, once every year or two if it hasn't been worn, but people think I am crazy. LOL I find that with a centrifuge and blotting, dressing with wires and a small box fan nearby, I can get through 4-6 objects a day, but that is lace wearables of most any fiber but cotton. It is good to check on things for change, and revel in one's work or acquisitions too. ;-) With bobbin and needle laces it would probably be ideal to not touch when checking of course. I am certain that with a little information shared, people will make astute decisions on how best to store, based on their situation. Best,Susan Reishus
"A textile collection's person at the Cooper Hewitt told me that they do not favor air tight containers in that it traps the environment present at the time you close the box. I suppose this means humidity, organisms, etc. Generally, plastic is considered to "off gas", but if museum conservators say that Rubbermade is the exception to that rule, who am I to argue..." Devon - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]
