Collections

Understanding fibres and fabrics helps you understand textile collections

Textiles are found not just in clothing and accessories but also in many social history items, from dolls to street pianos and trade union banners to prams.

This seminar aims to demystify approaches to identifying different fibres and fabric structures which can be found in such objects. Such understanding will not only inform accurate documentation and planning for appropriate display and storage but also inspire new interpretative and educational approaches. 

The seminar takes a hands-on approach, including first steps in using a simple microscope to identify fibres, as well as using York Castle Museum displays to promote discussion.

Delegates will receive a handbook to enable further exploration of fibres and fabrics after the course. It will be run by Monument Fellow Mary Brooks, previously assistant keeper of textiles (conservation) at York Castle Museum.

Mary trained as a textile conservator and has worked as a curator and conservator in Europe and America. She has extensive experience as an adult educator and trainer.

The seminar is free and takes place in York Castle Museum, York, on Monday 7 February 2011. It runs from 10.00am to 4.00pm.

Coffee and lunch will also be provided free of charge.

Click here to download a booking form (word)