How to Preserve an Autograph on a Shirt

Celebrities often get asked to autograph items such as shirts.

If you had the opportunity to meet a favorite celebrity and managed to get an autograph on a shirt, you will want to preserve the memory. Additionally, that autograph may become valuable over time, so it is best to take action to preserve it from fading while the ink is still fresh.

Things You'll Need

• Acid-free tissue paper
• Airtight box

Instructions

1. Hand-wash the shirt in cold water if the autograph was signed with a permanent marker or a laundry marker. If you are unsure of the type of pen used, do not wash the shirt since the ink may run.

2. Place the washed or unwashed shirt in a tumble dryer, and dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes. This sets the ink and helps prevent fading of the autograph.

3. Fold the shirt gently, being careful not to place folds over the signature.

4. Wrap the shirt in acid-free tissue paper, and place it in an airtight box. Store the box in a dark place.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to display the shirt, fold it carefully and place in a frame with a glass front and an acid-free mount and backing.

• You can also embroider over the autograph using a chain stitch, but be aware that this may affect the future value of the autograph.

References

• "Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook: The Essential Guide for Caring for Everything in Your Home"; Martha Stewart; 2006

Resources

• "Secrets of Digital Quilting ..."; Lura Schwartz Smith, et al.; 2010