Textiles and Weaving
More to discover ↗A repair should not have to erase an object’s history to keep it useful. Learn how to weigh reversible methods, recognise when a quick fix may cause lasting damage, and choose an approach suited to textiles, leather, jewellery and decorative objects.
Read article · 4 min↗Light rust does not always mean a hand tool is beyond use. Learn how to assess the affected surface, clean it without needlessly removing sound metal, and store the tool so moisture is less likely to undo your work.
Read article · 4 min↗A woven basket can trap dust between its strands and lose shape if it is stored under pressure. Learn how to clean it gently, manage moisture and decide when a misshapen basket can be reshaped.
Read article · 4 min↗Unfinished wood needs a gentle approach: remove dust first, use moisture sparingly, and think carefully before adding a coating. Learn how to care for carved, turned and assembled wooden objects without changing the character of their surfaces.
Read article · 4 min↗The right adhesive depends on how a ceramic object broke, how its fragments fit, and whether the repair may need to be removed later. Learn how to assess a decorative piece, compare common adhesive types, and make a careful repair without treating it as safe for food or heat.
Read article · 4 min↗A small mark on a handmade plate can be part of its character, but a chip, crack or network of glaze lines deserves a closer look. Learn how to distinguish these changes, decide when a piece should leave food service, and clean and store ceramic tableware gently.
Read article · 4 min↗A cleaning method that works for one gemstone may dull or damage another. Learn how stone type, treatments and settings affect safe cleaning, and when a gentle wipe is the better choice.
Read article · 4 min↗A clasp does more than close a necklace or bracelet: it helps keep the whole piece secure. Learn how to spot wear, choose a suitable replacement and decide when a repair is better left to a jeweller.
Read article · 4 min↗Tarnish can dull silver, but aggressive cleaning may also remove intentional darkening, wear away plating or damage stones and settings. Learn how to assess a piece, clean it gently and know when to stop.
Read article · 4 min↗A loose seam on a wallet, pouch or strap does not always call for the same fix. Learn how to assess the damage, make a small repair using existing stitch holes, and recognise when a specialist is the safer choice.
Read article · 4 min↗Leather conditioner can help a dry accessory stay flexible, but too much may change its colour, feel or shape. Learn when conditioning is useful, how to test a product and how to apply it sparingly.
Read article · 4 min↗A leather wallet usually needs less cleaning than you might think. Learn how to identify its finish, remove everyday grime gently, and avoid products or techniques that can leave lasting marks.
Read article · 4 min↗Pilling is a common result of wear, especially where knitted fabric rubs against itself or other surfaces. Learn how to remove pills gently, choose a suitable tool, and care for handmade knitwear without pulling at its stitches.
Read article · 4 min↗A secure replacement button should hold the garment closed without pulling at the cloth. Learn how to assess the fabric, choose a suitable button and sew it on with the right amount of space and support.
Read article · 4 min↗A loose seam on a fabric pouch, bag or case is often repairable by hand. Learn how to inspect the opening, choose a suitable stitch and reinforce the seam without changing the accessory’s shape.
Read article · 4 min↗A small hole in a jumper or cardigan need not mean the end of its wear. Learn how to prepare the area, build a simple woven darn and finish the repair without pulling the fabric out of shape.
Read article · 4 min↗Good textile storage starts with clean, dry fabric and a space that is dark, stable and easy to inspect. Learn how to fold or hang different pieces, limit moth access and prevent sharp creases without relying on scented deterrents.
Read article · 4 min↗Handmade wool does not all need the same care. Learn how to assess construction, colour and condition before washing, when a gentle hand-wash may be appropriate, and when keeping the object dry is the safer choice.
Read article · 4 min↗A small spill can become a larger mark if liquid travels through a handwoven textile. Learn how to contain a stain, test for colour transfer, clean with minimal moisture and know when to stop.
Read article · 4 min↗A handmade object may combine fibres, dyes, finishes, adhesives and hardware that respond differently to cleaning. Learn what to inspect first, how to recognise signs of vulnerability and when gentle dusting—or no cleaning at all—is the better choice.
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