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April 9th, 2009
by Sew Craftful

How to store vintage sewing patterns

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How to properly store vintage sewing patterns

The great majority of modern papers are acid free, but most paper collectibles, including vintage sewing patterns (envelopes and tissue) are acidic and need special treatment to lengthen their lives.  Properly storing vintage sewing patterns is more important than collecting vintage patterns. Without proper storage your collection is easily ruined.  
 
Major risks to your vintage paper collectibles
  • Oxidation and acid hydrolysis cause paper to deteriorate. Oxidation attaches cellulose molecules with oxygen from the air causing darkening and acidity
  • Extreme temperatures
  • Humidity
  • Insects
  • Rodents
  • Mold
  • Improper handling and storage

Consider this

1.  Storage space
Store paper collectibles in a cool, dark and dry place that’s well-ventilated and large enough to accommodate your stash.   It’s a good idea to keep a ceiling fan (or air conditioner) running on low and a dehumidifier working in the room.  
2.  Packing and storage
Metal pattern cabinets work well.  Plastic bins are subject to moisture and humidity.  Don’t “tight pack” patterns. If moisture occurs because patterns are so tightly packed, more patterns than would have otherwise been harmed will suffer damage.  
Place sewing patterns in an upright position and put cardboard backers (acid-free) behind individual each pattern. The cardboard acts as both a barrier and shape protector.   
It’s okay to ship patterns in plastic as added protection from the elements, mailing and other unforeseen incidents, I wouldn’t recommend storing patterns in plastic Ziploc bags.  Plastic bags, PVC sheets, plastic wrap and other polyethylene bags contain plasticizers and other additives which can migrate into paper and cause premature aging.

It’s best to wrap the entire pattern (envelope & pieces) in acid-free tissue paper before storing.  If you don’t have the tissue readily available place sewing patterns in small lightweight brown paper bags before storing.   The dark color of the bad helps to protect the pattern from sunlight.   

If you prefer plastic, use sleeves, envelopes, boxes that are archival quality to prevent contamination of contents. 
The US Library of Congress suggests storing paper collectibles using uncoated archival quality polyester films such as Mylar type D by DuPont Co. or equivalent material Melinex 516 by ICI Corporation.

Mylar is a strong transparent film that resists moisture, pollutants, oils and acids.  With a life expectancy of hundreds of years, Mylar will outlast most other plastics and its brilliancy and clarity is good.

What about cardboard boxes?

Ordinarily, cardboard are acidic.  If used for storage use only acid free boards that meet the US Government’s minimum requirements (3% calcium carbonate buffer throughout and a minimum pH of 8.5). 

This also applies to the cardboard backing mentioned earlier.

3.  Vermin, bugs and other creepy crawling things

Keep make sure your storage area is clean, uncluttered and dry.  Purchase a de-humidifier for the storage area.

For more Information visit

The Vogue Sewing Book

Nine reasons for collecting vintage sewing patterns

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