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APPRECIATION, CARE, PRESERVATION OF THE 24K GOLD SILK July 1997 Pat Reid Introduction: National Geographic Jan `84 describes silk as "soft as a sigh whispers of the exotic, the luxurious, the romantic. For more than 4,000 years this sensuous cloth, conjured from a strand of a lowly worm, has reigned supreme as `The Queen of Textiles'." The spectacular look of silk is achieved through the shape of it's triangular fibers that reflect like prisms and the layers of protein build up to a pearly sheen. Add 24k gold bonded to the shimmering silk fibers, for dramatic, vibrant, yet soft and flowing effects. May your contact with this remarkable textile be joyful and enlightening. Care and Preservation of 24k Gold Silk: 1.) After use, air fabric by draping or laying out for a day before storing. Body and atmospheric moisture as well as chemicals remaining in the fabric can cause deterioration. 2.) Storage: • Do not fold, and only with layers of acid free paper between layers. Store silk piece rolled around a 1-2 inch diameter newspaper roll covered with acid-free tissue and covered with more tissue. Store in 3.) Cleaning relatively dry place. Recommended after 10-15 handlings, wearings or when wrinkled, dull, spotted. Dry clean only if heavily spotted, as dry cleaning tends to dry, dull fabric. Request silk piece cleaned separately and/or in protective bag. Hand washing procedure recommended for most pieces. 1.) Use clean receptacle, (sink, basin ect.) 2.) Add warm water, small amount baby or gentle shampoo to make light suds. 3.) Let soak 2-3 minutes. 4.) Gently press suds, water out, do not wring. 5.) Rinse 2-3 times warm water, Add 1-3 tablespoons white vinegar to last rinse to soften. 6.) Wrap in towel to absorb moisture. 7.) Partially air-dry on rack or table. 8.) Press damp - medium hot steam or dry iron.