FABRIC FACTS
Some draperies and some drapery linings are coated to give them desirable
characteristics while hanging. Claims for coated drapery fabrics are: (1) insulation
against cold, heat,light and (2) protection of the fabric against rain, moisture and
the effect of sunlight. Coating may also stabilize the fabric against shrinkage.
Substances used to coat draperies are: (1) Vinyl plastic, (b) polyurethane plastic,
(c) rubber, and (d) acrylic resins, which are being more widely used.
FABRIC PROBLEMS
The durability or serviceability of the coating depends on its type, the method of
application and the quality control of the procedure. Vinyl plastic coating cannot be
drycleaned in perc because the plasticizer used to give it suppleness will dissolve in
perc. It will become stiff and crack. Polyurethane and rubber coatings are held to
the fabric with an adhesive binder. Their durability depends on the permanence of
the binder and the quality control in curing it. The coating may separate from the
fabric when contacted by any drycleaning solvent and the mechanical action typical
of the process. Acrylic coatings are applied to the fabric in liquid form and then
heated (cured) until the coating hardens. The coating permanence depends on
temperature and time. Unless quality control is used, the coating will peel and stick
in drycleaning or wetcleaning. Loss of coating, in even a few areas, will allow light
to pass through the fabric and give it a stained appearance. Drapery fabrics,
though coated, are affected by sunlight and atmospheric gases.
INSPECTION
Ask for hang tags with care instructions. Look for fading due to sunlight and
atmospheric gases. Hold draperies to the light for peeled or cracked areas.
Sunlight, atmospheric gases and radiator heat will cause the fabric or coating to
become tender. Do not dryclean without a signed customer release, even if the
care label reads "dryclean only."
DRYCLEANING
Test for serviceability of the coating by snipping a sample of the fabric from a hem
or pleat and attach it to a garment to be drycleaned. Allow sample to cool and
examine. Vinyl will stiffen in perc. Dryclean other coated fabrics for 3 minutes in a
high solvent level. Dry in the reclaimer not higher than 140 ° F. If two surfaces are
stuck together, do not pull them apart. Separation of the coating from the fabric
will occur. Instead, apply volatile dry solvent to area until the surfaces separate.
WETCLEANING
Drapery fabric may be susceptible to shrinkage. Be sure to have a written
customer's release before attempting it. Vinyl coating must be wet cleaned because
it cannot be drycleaned. Acrylic coating and polyurethane coating may peel in wet
cleaning. Use a soaking action with little agitation. Extract lightly and tumble in a
cool dryer.
FINISHING
When finishing coated drapery fabric, use limited steam to avoid damage to the
coating. Do not move the drapery until thoroughly dry because when warm, the
coating may stick. These fabrics do not require extensive finishing to return them
to previous appearance.
CORRECTION
Peeling on a few areas of a rubber, polyurethane or acrylic backing can sometimes
be repaired by applying a white acrylic or silicone rubber coating, which can be
obtained from any hardware store.
SUMMARY
Vinyl coating cannot be drycleaned in perc. Other coated drapery fabrics may pose
a problem if not quality controlled in manufacturer. Acrylic, rubber and
polyurethane are serviceable to the extent that the manufacturer has exercised
quality control. Coated fabric draperies, like other draperies, are susceptible to
damage from sunlight and atmospheric gases while hanging. Be on the safe side.
Accept coated drapery fabric draperies only with a signed customer's release. |
