Oh I wish I had known what I didnt know when I started a beading project on vintage fabric!!  First...NEVER wash your fabric in a machine. Our heavy duty machines are tooooo damaging for those gentle fibers no matter what KIND of fabric you found. You would be surprised at how time wears and even if it looks strong, it isnt. Wash your fabric by hand with just a little dish soap in the sink and dry on a towel. DONT WRING IT OUT! If you want to iron after it dries, cover it with a cotton dish towel first. Even a tiny scorch can ruin a project.  And....if you are beading this beautiful fabric???  Bead through a very thin layer of cotton on a bit of backing. <sigh> Now I know....is a little late for the vintage curtains rescued from an OLD hotel room and meant to be pillows on my bed. I was so disgusted!   So do ME a favor...K?  If I can help save some of the wonderful pieces of rare fabric and lace by writing this guide.....then my pitiful pile of threads didnt go to total waste.   Lynnie         P.S. Let me know what you are making!!