How to Restore Silver Thread Brocade

Silver thread adds a sparkle to brocade.

Silver thread brocade may bring up images of your grandmother’s ornamented couch, but brocade is used regularly in modern times by both fashion and furniture designers. Brocade is a Spanish word that means embossed cloth, and it usually consists of a heavy silky or wool fabric that contains intricate patterns and designs. The silver is often weaved or embroidered into the fabric to enhance the design. Many articles of clothing or home decor products that are made of brocade require dry cleaning, and some can be cleaned and restored through hand washing. Check the label on your silver thread brocade product to see if hand washing is permissible.

Things You'll Need

• Sink
• Water
• Mild soap
• Vinegar
• Towels

Instructions

1. Fill a sink with cool water and one cap full of mild soap or detergent. Read the label on the bottle of soap to be sure that it is appropriate for hand washing silk and wool fabrics.

2. Pour 1 teaspoon of white or apple cider vinegar into the water to help restore brocades that are particularly dirty or worn.

3. Place the brocade garment in the water and swirl it around. Avoid twisting or scrunching the material, which can cause damage. Let the fabric soak for five to 10 minutes.

4. Lift the brocade out of the water and put it between towels to remove the excess moisture. Lay the garment flat to dry.

References

• Care2.com: Wet Clean Wool, Silk and Rayon