Textile conservation is a more active approach that involves direct physical intervention to stabilize or repair objects that have already suffered damage. This may include treatments such as cleaning, repairing, stabilizing structural issues, or carefully restoring object components 

While textile preservation focuses on minimizing risks and slowing deterioration over time. It is considered the most effective and efficient way to ensure the long-term preservation of an object. This approach involves actions such as risk assessments, establishing care and handling protocols, and creating guidelines for storage, display, transport, and environmental condition.

At Heritage Textile Conservation, Nickole follows the American Institute for Conservation Ethical guidelines to ensure treatment is ethical and effective while providing the highest level of care and respect. This includes treatments that uphold the integrity, cultural value, and aesthetics of the object. 

Textiles are a general term for anything made of cloth or fabric. For example: modern or historic clothing; accessories such as scarves, purses, and hats; quilts; coverlets; doll clothing; stuffed animals; cultural or religious garments like baptismal gowns; needlework; tapestries; basically anything that is cloth or fabric-related.

Each textile tells its own story, and each conservation project requires an individualized approach. Costs vary depending on the condition, materials, size, and complexity of treatment needs of each object. No two projects require the same approach.

Following an initial consultation and examination, I provide a treatment recommendation along with a clear discussion of expected time and cost. I believe in open communication and will always discuss financial considerations before conservation work begins. (See a breakdown of the steps to work together in the next FAQ.)

Professional textile conservation is an investment in preserving the historical, cultural, and personal significance of your textile for future generations. Thoughtful, ethical treatment helps stabilize fragile materials, slow deterioration, and ensures your textile can be safely cared for well into the future.

1. If you're local to Des Moines, Iowa or the surrounding area, I'll first meet with you to discuss your object in-person. If you're outside of the area, we will meet via Zoom to discuss your options. 

2. After we discuss your goals, I'll take the object back to my lab to perform a series of tests to determine the best course of action that aligns with your goals. I will then provide you with a written Condition Report and Treatment Proposal. There is a $125 fee for the assessment, condition report, and treatment proposal. 

3. Next you'll sign and date the Treatment Proposal and email it back to NickoleSwensen@gmail.com and your object will be put in the conservation queue.

4. Treatment work begins once your object is next in Nickole's conservation queue. At Heritage Textile Conservation, Nickole follows the American Institute for Conservation Ethical guidelines.

5. When conservation treatment on your piece is complete, you'll be notified and receive an invoice for services. Once payment is received, we will arrange pickup or shipment of your object.

At Heritage Textile Conservation, Nickole collaborates with individuals and cultural institutions that have textiles they wish to preserve or conserve.

Yes! Rather than an in-person consultation, we will meet via Zoom to discuss your options and arrange for the shipment of your item to my conservation lab.