3 Ways to Make Your Textile Art Last a Lifetime
If you’re new to displaying textiles as art in your space, you may have some concerns about how to care for it properly. With proper care, your textile artwork can last a lifetime or more. The good news? It’s remarkably easy, provided you follow some basic steps:
Tip #1
Keep your quilt out of direct sunlight, and keep indoor lighting indirect.
UV rays from the sun are killer to the dyes in the fabric, and will cause discoloration over time. Fluorescent lighting also emit UV rays, and incandescent bulbs generate a lot of heat in their immediate area, which can damage fibers.
If framing a piece, choose museum-quality glass, or acrylic that offers strong UV protection.
Keep those rays off me, baby!
Tip #2
Watch out for humidity changes.
Avoid displaying above or near radiators, air conditioners and humidifiers. Humidity and temperature changes can weaken the fibers and cause distortion over time.
Tip #3
Support that sucker!
If you’re displaying a large textile, be sure the weight is supporting across the entire length of the piece. My works come with a sleeve for hanging attached to the back, however you may choose to display it in another way.
Quilt frames are advised for particularly large or heavy pieces to prevent the fabric from distorting over extended periods of time. Large works can be stitched to a canvas to support the full weight of the work. And of course, ensure any glass used in the frame provides UV protection.
An experienced local framer will be your best choice for the task.
Bonus
For more ideas on how to hang your textile art, I’ve got you covered over here.
