How to Restore an Old Military Uniform

Restoring an old military uniform helps current generations live through history.

Over the years, a military uniform becomes dirty, torn and otherwise damaged. It is possible to restore old military uniforms to their former glory by following certain procedures. Make sure to restore the uniform to period regulations and to use the correct patches, buttons and accessories for that particular uniform.

Things You'll Need

• Laundry detergent
• Washing machine
• Dryer
• Stain remover
• Safety pins
• Scissors
• Ironing board
• Iron
• Starch
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Matching patch fabric
• Uniform buttons
• Uniform patches
• Uniform patch kit
• Hangers or display boxes

Instructions

1. Inspect the uniform to determine what you will have to repair in order to restore it. Many uniforms are ripped through use, or may even have bullet holes. If the uniform was damaged during active use, consider leaving a few of the marks for historical purposes.

2. Wash the uniform in the washing machine if it is sturdy enough to withstand the washing and drying process. You can also hand-wash the uniform in a sink or take it to a dry cleaners. Use a stain remover to remove any stains from the uniform.

3. Iron the uniform to reveal all missing pieces, rips or tears. Mark the placement of all of the missing items with safety pins. It is easier to repair all problems if they are clearly marked.

4. Trim any loose threads and unraveled pieces with scissors. Sew small tears with a sewing machine, or patch any large tears and sew with a sewing machine.

5. Replace any missing buttons with real military-issued replacement buttons. Some Army Navy Surplus stores sell military buttons for modern uniforms, and you can find buttons for antique uniforms online. Make sure to sew the buttons in the correct spots. Look at pictures of complete uniforms for button placement. Replace any missing hardware, such as insignia pins.

6. Sew any missing patches onto the uniform. Make sure to only use patches that would have been used on that particular uniform.

7. Iron the uniform after making all sewing adjustments. Starch the uniform to return it to a crisp and neat appearance. Hang the uniform from a hanger, or fold it and place it in a display case.

References

• Air Force Military: Air Force Patch Regulations
• "The U.S. Army in the West, 1870-1880: Uniforms, Weapons, and Equipment"; Douglas C. McChristian; 2000
• "Modern Military Uniforms"; Chris McNab; 2000