Care Guide
A Guide to Caring for Your Crewel Curtains: Preserve Their Beauty for Years to Come
Congratulations on your beautiful new crewel embroidered curtains from Kashmir Crewel Mart! You’ve invested in a piece of timeless art, a masterpiece created by the skilled hands of Kashmiri artisans. To ensure their intricate beauty lasts for generations, proper care is essential.
Follow this simple guide to keep your crewel curtains looking vibrant and elegant.
1. The Golden Rule: Professional Dry Cleaning
We highly recommend professional dry cleaning for your crewel curtains. The delicate nature of the hand-spun wool and the natural dyes used in the embroidery require a gentle touch that is best handled by experts. Dry cleaning helps to maintain the integrity of the threads, prevent color bleeding, and preserve the fabric’s original texture.
What to tell your dry cleaner:
- Inform them that the curtains are hand-embroidered with wool yarn on a cotton or silk base.
- Specify that they should be dry-cleaned using a solvent-based method suitable for wool.
- Request a cold, delicate cycle if they offer that option.
2. Dusting and General Maintenance
- Regularly Dust: To prevent dust buildup, you can gently shake your curtains outdoors once a month. This is a gentle alternative to washing and helps to keep them fresh.
- Avoid Vacuuming: Do not use a vacuum cleaner directly on the embroidered surface, as the suction can pull at and damage the delicate wool threads. If you must, use a very low-power setting with a soft brush attachment and a protective mesh over the embroidery.
3. Handling Spills and Stains
- Blot, Don’t Rub: In the unfortunate event of a spill, act quickly. Use a clean, dry, absorbent cloth to gently blot the liquid. Never rub the stain, as this can spread the color and damage the embroidery.
- Spot Cleaning: If necessary, you can spot-clean with a very small amount of a wool-safe, pH-neutral detergent and cold water. Test the solution on a hidden area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.
4. Storage (If Applicable)
- Store with Care: If you need to store your curtains, do not fold them tightly. This can cause permanent creases and weaken the threads.
- Roll, Don’t Fold: The best method for long-term storage is to roll the curtains around a sturdy, acid-free tube.
- Breathable Bag: Store them in a breathable fabric bag (like cotton or muslin). Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your crewel curtains remain a treasured centerpiece of your home for many years to come, their beauty and craftsmanship perfectly preserved.