All Beaumont & Fletcher fabrics are unique and handmade using the finest materials including silks, velvets, taffetas, freshwater pearls and crystals, and gold and silver thread, meaning they may be more fragile than factory-made pieces. However, with careful handling and awareness of some of the key challenges affecting fabrics, these beautiful textiles should last for generations.
The best way to prevent pulled threads is to avoid letting the embroidered face of the fabric rub against itself, as this can cause threads to catch and pull. If pulling does accidentally occur, you should use a pair of fine pointed scissors to snip off the damaged thread as close to the base cloth as possible without damaging or cutting other fibres.
One of the greatest threats to the lifespan of textiles is ultraviolet radiation from natural and fluorescent light, which causes fabric dyes to fade and can make silk fibres brittle. Using blinds is an easy way to counter this, and most modern windows have treated glass to substantially reduce UV penetration. The phasing out of incandescent lighting in domestic settings also helps protect our fabrics.
Excessive heat and humidity can harm fabrics, so we recommend maintaining a consistent, moderate temperature in order to preserve fabric quality. Microscopic dust particles are sharp edged and can cut into the fibres of the fabric, as the fibres expand and contract in response to changing temperature and humidity.
If your fabrics accidentally suffer water damage, the best course of action is to dry the affected area with a fan. If a water mark remains, or any other spills or stains affect the fabric, you should consult a specialist cleaner.
Before dry cleaning any of our embroidered fabrics, you should consult a specialist cleaner to discuss the suitability of this process. For London-based clients we recommend Pilgrim Payne, but there are a number of other specialists of equally excellent repute across the UK and beyond.
Gentle vacuuming once or twice a year will help to prolong the life of your fabrics. A low-power, handheld vacuum works best, ideally with a fine mesh net placed over the nozzle to ensure that the delicate embroidery is not pulled or damaged. Vacuum carefully, working in the direction of the nap when working on velvets, and take care to avoid the net and nozzle catching on any metal threads, stones, and embroidery.
