Care of Silk

Congratulations! You have completed a silk sewing project and have a stunning new garment. Silk is the finest fabric known and treated with the loving care it deserves, this natural product will retain its good look and feel. You can expect excellent value and long service.

You may notice occasional variations in the weave or finish of the fabric, depending on the type of fabric you have purchased. They are characteristic of the natural yarn and weaving process. This adds to silks unique beauty and texture, and means that each garment has an individual appeal.

Wash or dry clean?
We are frequently asked if silk garments should be washed or dry cleaned. Much of the answer is comes down to personal preference.

Personally, in most instances we choose to dry clean our silk garments, especially those precious favorites, when we request that the dry cleaner use an individual method. An expensive option, yes, but worth it in the long run to maintain the original characteristics of the fabric and garment structure.

However, some experts are happy to recommend washing as an option for certain silks. The major exceptions are taffeta, brocade, velvet, metallic, some chiffons, charmeuses, satins and crepes. These varieties of silk should always be dry cleaned. If you are unsure which is the correct care option for your silk garment, we recommend you test wash a sample scrap first, to allow you to evaluate the results.

To Dry Clean
It is wise to tell the Dry Cleaner that your garment is made from silk, so that it wont be cleaned with jeans and other garments that could harm the silk. Some Dry Cleaners claim to be silk specialists, so it is worth discussing the services offered.

To Wash
Use cool water (not hot) and a small amount of soap or mild liquid washing detergent. Rinse very well in cold water. Do not use bleach or any products that contain bleach. Peroxide and ammonia can help to keep silks white.

To Dry
Hang, or lay flat to dry in the shade – keep out of direct sun as this can affect the colour.

To Iron
Press on the wrong side of the garment with a cool iron while still damp or with a light steam.

Enjoy your silk garment!

All About Silk

History of Silk
How Silk Is Made
Care of Silk

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