Church Linen, Vestments and Textiles

Book excerpt: It has been over 80 years since the last guide to the care of church linens and textiles was published and despite being used to a greater or lesser degree in every parish church, popular knowledge of their proper use and care is diminishing. Liturgical styles have changed greatly in that time, and there is need for this new updated guide, not only to the care of church linen but also to the use and care of vestments, hangings and other textiles. Part One focuses on altar linen and cloths. It gives advice about how to wash, starch, fold, iron and generally care for the main items used at the altar, as well as briefly describing their use. Part Two focuses on vestments and garments, with detailed advice on cleaning and storage. Part Three is a complete guide to laundering and dry cleaning church textiles, and how to remove common stains. Part Four offers a directory of sources and advice on the storage and disposal of church textiles.