Finishing Touches

Once your silk scarf or tie is painted and dry, your job is done!

However there's a little more that has to happen before the silk can be worn. I take care of the rest at my studio, and then deliver back to your group within 48 hours.

Here's what goes on, behind the scenes...

Steaming

The silk has to be slow-steam-set, to ensure the dye is permanently affixed into the fabric. It is first rolled-up with paper, and then placed into a special silk steamer for about an hour and a half. Once removed from steaming, the dye colors are more vibrant, and the silks are damp with moisture. They must then be laid out flat to dry.

Washing & Rinsing

Once steamed and dry, the silk has to be washed and rinsed to remove any excess dye or residue from the fabric. In a deep 2-compartment sink, the silk is first rinsed in cold water for about 5 minutes, then soaked in a warm soapy bath for another 5 minutes, and then finally rinsed again in warm water - this time for total removal of any excess dye and soap.

Ironing Dry

After removing as much moisture as possible with a towel, the silk has to then be ironed dry, also removing any wrinkles and reviving the fabric's soft and silky feel. The piece of silk must be placed between multiple layers of bedsheets to protect the delicate fabric from the hot iron, while still receiving enough heat to actually dry the silk. Once dry, the silk scarf or tie is technically ready to wear!

Final Gift Packaging

To give your silk scarf, tie, or hankie its "proper entrance," each piece is individually gift-wrapped and includes a special card allowing you to take credit for this one of a kind, silk creation - that you painted! (Suggested Care Instructions are also included.)