I NVENTO RY
32. Care and Feeding of a Garment
It's imperative to consider the life of a garment
when designing it, such as how the garment will
hold up over time, through wear, cleaning, and
steaming. This can make the difference between
having an object that is a keepsake and one that
is relegated to the dustbin. In some cases, it is
the patina that develops during the aging process
that adds to its desirability. In others, the value
comes from the item's ability to retain a good-as
new appearance over time.
Will the garment's fabric and construction stand
up to machine washing, or will it require hand
washing or dry cleaning? Will a lint brush or an
adhesive roller be able to clear the surface of lint,
hair, and fuzz?
Does the fabric require pressing or steaming?
In the case of velvet or corduroy fabrics, will a
needle press board or pad help maintain the pile?
When iron ing the garment, how will a tailor's
ham, a press mitt, a seam roll, a point press, or a
sleeve board work for the user? Will a press cloth
or pad help to prevent the fabric from shining
or singeing?
After a length of time, folds can become perma
nent and weaken the fabric, so proper storage is
essential. Which type of hanger best suits that
particular garment? Will packing with tissue and
cardboard forms help keep the body of the gar
ment in shape and wrinkle-free? Would it be best
to store the garment on the hanger in a plastic
bag or a cloth bag, or in a box with acid-free pa
per? Will basting pockets and vents closed help
prevent sagging or twisting?
Designers may not always have the time to test
the endurance of a garment, but they can be
come familiar with how fabrics and construction
techniques will stand up to time and use, helping
them to make the best choices.
70 Fashion Design Essentials
Faux furs can be brushed gently to
prevent matting, also removing dust and
debris. May be machine washed and
hung to dry. No dryer or direct heat.
Sturdy cotton (canvas, denim twill) can
be laundered-hot water for whites;
warm or cold for colors. Shrinkage can
be addressed with prewashing.
Heavy wool tweeds and suiting may be
dry cleaned or spot cleaned with a damp
sponge. A steamer is the recommended
way to take out wrinkles.
Nylon, polyester, and other synthetics
used for outerwear may be machine
washed or dry cleaned. They can also be
placed in a dryer at a low temperature.
Dry cleaning is preferred for most
delicate silks. They may also be gently
hand washed with mild soap. Lay flat to
dry on a noncolored towel.
Hairy fabrics (angora, mohair, alpaca, or
vicuna) should be dry cleaned or gently
washed. Do not wring or agitate; dry flat.
Steam; do not iron flat.
