Handling Object Types (1 of 8)
How do I handle textiles and costumes?
How a textile or costume should be handled will depend somewhat on the type of textile it is and the way in which it is packaged (if it has been packaged). Refer to the e-learning tools on Packing Museum Objects for more detail on packing textiles and costumes.
- If the textile or costume is stored in a box then do not take it out of the box; just carry the box as described previously
- Keep handling to a minimum; textiles can easily deteriorate from continued handling
- Wear gloves or make sure your hands are scrupulously clean
- When working near textiles, only use pencils
- Avoid wearing make-up, which could come off and stain textiles
- Do not lean on textiles or place anything on them
