Silk

Already 5000 years ago people learned how to use the wires of the cocoon of the silkworm to weave clothing. For 3000 years China was able to keep the secret of silk fabrication within its borders. It wasn't untill the beginning of our era that the production also started in other countries. Also some western countries tried, with changing success, to use silkworms. But until today southeast Asia is by far the largest producer.

In countries where mass production is important, selectively grown silkworms which produce as much silk wire as possible are used. In Thailand however, the natural silkworm is still used. This silkworm produces less silk but this it is of special quality.

Unwinding the silk is still done manually in Thailand and also the weaving is a job for very skilled woman. On their wooden handlooms they create magnificent patterns. Because it is handwoven, the silk has small irregularities which makes the fabric even more attractive. Further more, Thai silk is of very high quality, it is very tightly woven and has a splendid brilliance.

Photograph serie a visit to manufacturers in Thailand (August 2005)

Which silk to choose?

Silk fabrics can vary because of the silkworm which is used, the colouring of the threads, the manner of weaving and many other factors. Silk fabric exists in dozens of types. Some are relatively cheap because they are mechanically woven and the distance between the threads is relatively large. The weight of these fabrics is very low.

Most of our handmade silk scarves are very tightly woven. As a result, the fabric weighs more and is much stronger. But because of the specific characteristic of silk, it's warm in cold weather and cool in warm weather!

Some important tips for the correct treatment of your silk clothing

Silk is the most luxurious and sensual fabric. It deserves your best care. When you wash it for the first time some dye can come off. Therefore don't leave the fabric too long in the water.

TIP: let your parfum and hair lacquer dry before putting the scarf on. The alcohol in it can damage the silk.

• Don't expose silk too long to the sunlight.
  
• Wash silk before dirt becomes to persistant or after extensive sweating.
  
• Dry cleaning is advised to preserve the colour, brilliance and structure.
  
• With handwash always use a small quantity of soft soap in lukewarm water. Don't use bleaching agent or softener.
  
• Always wash separately.
  
• Soak the silk only 3-5 minutes in water, rinse very well afterwards.
  
• A spoonful of pure vinegar added to the second last rinsing helps to keep the original brilliance.
  
• Never wring or rub silk.
  
• Dry in the shade, preferable horizontally.
  
• Iron when the silk is still a little wet. If the fabric is already dry, put a slightly wet towel on it when ironing. Put the iron always on the lowest score.