Guide artisanat - Correctement entretenir votre costume

Has your costume danced the night away at a grand ball, trodden the dusty grounds of a medieval market, or endured an intense role-playing game in the rain and laughter? It deserves a little rest... and above all, some care. Whether it's a hand-sewn outfit, an assembly of pieces collected over the years, or a noble costume embroidered with a thousand threads of gold, proper care is the key to preserving its beauty, strength, and history.

Here is a simple but comprehensive guide to help you pamper your outfit between adventures.

1. Read the labels or ask the artisan the right questions

Before you think about washing or ironing anything, take the time to identify the nature of your costume. The labels sewn inside (yes, the ones we often want to cut off because they scratch!) contain crucial information: main material, washing temperature, various precautions.

If your suit is a one-of-a-kind piece made by a tailor, ask them directly for all the important details: types of fabrics used, presence of sensitive elements (synthetic braiding, tailored fabric, heat-bonded lining, etc.), or washing recommendations.

Items from the Les Mains à Coudre workshop come with a sturdy hang tag containing all the information you need to care for them properly. As each creation is unique, this method allows me to provide personalized information tailored to your item and its specific characteristics.

2. Gently clean after an event

Even if you don't plan to wash your costume right away, a little post-game cleaning is necessary. After a LARP or event, your outfit will have sweated, absorbed dust, and perhaps picked up a few leaves, twigs, or splashes, so as soon as you return from your event,

Start by gently shaking it to remove any visible dirt. If it is stained with dirt or grass, let it dry and then brush it gently. Next, air it out thoroughly in the open air—indoors or in the shade—to remove moisture and prevent mold.

This simple step will help keep the costume looking fresh and limit excessive washing, which can damage the fabric over time.

3. Washing the costume: by hand, in the washing machine, or at the dry cleaner's?

The washing method depends directly on the complexity of your costume.

For technical pieces, such as lined jackets, structured tunics, or embroidered outfits, dry cleaning remains the safest solution. This avoids accidents such as shrinkage or irreparable deformation.

For simpler costumes (cotton dresses, linen tunics, shirts without delicate embroidery), hand washing is ideal:

• Fill a basin with lukewarm water and mild soap or a natural detergent suitable for the fibers.

• Soak for 10 to 20 minutes without rubbing vigorously.

• Rinse several times with clean water.

• Avoid wringing the fabric; press it gently to remove the water.

Gentle tip: if a stain persists, use a polished horn or bone tool to rub it without damaging the fibers.

In the washing machine? Choose a delicate cycle, cold (or 30°C max), with little spin. Turn your items inside out, place them in laundry nets, and limit the amount of clothing to avoid friction.

Tip for removing odors: a spray of neutral vodka in a spray bottle works wonders on smelly areas. Avoid essential oils: they are allergenic, costly in terms of natural resources, and often too harsh for delicate fabrics.

4. Drying and ironing: patience and caution

The dryer is the sworn enemy of LARP costumes. It weakens the fibers, damages the braiding, and causes creases that are sometimes irreversible. It is preferable to dry your costume in the open air, flat on a towel or hung on a wide hanger.

Be careful when ironing:

Always test with the lowest temperature setting.

Check the fabric if you are unsure, especially if it is a blend (cotton/polyester, silk or synthetic satin).

Protect sensitive areas with a damp cloth or an intermediate fabric.

Tip for removing wrinkles: a steam iron is ideal for smoothing out creases without risk, whatever the fabric of your suit. A good investment if you wear suits regularly.

5. Repair and maintain between events

Maintenance doesn't stop at washing. Between events, take the time to:

• Check seams and reinforcements.

• Reattach loose buttons or unstitched braiding.

• Brush or dust your capes and accessories.

• Oil belt buckles or wax leather pieces.

Storage: Keep your outfits away from direct light (which fades colors) and humidity. Les Mains à Coudre creations come with a protective cover: ideal for protecting against dust and UV rays.

In summary

Caring for your costume is much more than just washing it. It's a way to extend its life, preserve its history, and honor the hours of creativity that went into making it. A well-maintained costume is a costume that's ready for new adventures, to evolve with your character, and to shine at every event.

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