Hand block printing is a labor of love. Every quilt, tablecloth, and tunic from Roopantaran carries the soul of the artisan, the rhythmic "thud" of the wooden block, and the vibrant history of Indian heritage. Because these pieces are made with natural dyes and delicate artisanal techniques, they are living textiles. They breathe, they age, and with the right care, they become beautiful heirlooms. If you have ever pulled a favorite cotton quilt out of storage only to find it smelling musty or looking yellowed, you know that how you store your textiles is just as important as how you wash them. Here is our guide to keeping your Roopantaran treasures fresh and vibrant for years to come.
1. The Clean Slate: Never Store Dirty
It might be tempting to fold up that summer kaftan and toss it in a bin once the weather turns chilly, but invisible residues are the enemy of natural fabrics. Perspiration, skin oils, and perfume can oxidize over time. What looks like a clean garment today could develop stubborn yellow stains six months from now. Before storing your hand block printed items, give them a gentle wash according to the care instructions. Ensure they are
completely dry. Even a hint of moisture trapped in the fibers can lead to mildew and that dreaded "old trunk" smell.
2. Say No to Plastic
This is the golden rule of textile preservation. Plastic bins and vacuum seal bags might save space, but they trap moisture and prevent the fabric from breathing. Hand block prints, especially those using natural vegetable dyes, need air circulation. Plastic can also outgas chemicals that react with natural dyes, causing discoloration. Instead, use:
- Old cotton sarees or bedsheets: Wrap your quilts and heavy linens in clean, white cotton fabric.
- Muslin bags: These are perfect for garments and smaller fabric lengths.
- Acid-free tissue paper: Use this to layer between folds to prevent "color bleeding" or "crocking" if the environment gets humid.
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3. The Art of the Fold (and the Roll)
Folding creates permanent creases that can eventually weaken the fibers, leading to tears along the fold lines.
- For Quilts and Large Linens: Try to refold them every few months in a different pattern so the stress isn't always on the same spots. Better yet, roll them loosely if you have the space.
- For Garments: Padded hangers are great for short term use, but for long term storage, laying them flat is best. This prevents the weight of the fabric from stretching the shoulders out of shape.
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4. Location, Location, Location
Where you store your collection matters just as much as what you wrap it in. You want a spot that is
cool, dry, and dark. - Avoid Sunlight: Even indirect sunlight can fade those beautiful indigo and madder dyes over time. A dark closet or a chest is ideal.
- Climate Control: Avoid damp basements or scorching hot attics. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause fibers to expand and contract, leading to brittleness.
5. Natural Pest Control
Moths and silverfish love natural fibers as much as we do. However, avoid using mothballs. The smell is incredibly difficult to remove from cotton and the chemicals are harsh. Instead, lean into the traditional Indian wisdom of using
dried Neem leaves. You can also use cedar blocks or lavender sachets. These provide a lovely, subtle scent while acting as a natural deterrent for pests. Just make sure the herbs or wood do not touch the fabric directly to avoid oil staining.
6. Give Them a Breath of Fresh Air
Don’t let your Roopantaran pieces stay boxed up forever. Every few months, take your quilts and hand block printed fabrics out for a "spa day." Shake them out, let them breathe in a shaded area for an hour, and refold them. This simple act prevents dust from settling and helps you catch any potential issues like dampness or pests before they cause real damage.
At Roopantaran, we believe that hand block printed textiles are more than just products; they are stories told on fabric. By following these storage steps, you ensure that your favorite prints remain as bright and soulful as the day they arrived at your doorstep.
