Textile Care

Susie Watson Designs

All our fabrics are handmade with great skill and attention to detail at our charming factory in Southern India. We take great pride in our fabrics being manufactured by hand and love the unique quality it gives us. As a result, there will sometimes be some slight imperfections in the fabric; this shouldn't be considered a fault, but be seen as part of its character. All our linen fabrics are completely natural not dyed, this can mean they can fade when positioned in direct sunlight.

Colour Variation

Please be aware that all our fabrics are subject to shade variation from batch to batch, especially those which are hand embroidered. It is also particularly difficult to represent fabric colours accurately in photography and we therefore recommend
viewing a sample prior to purchase.

Washing & Care Instructions

Following these useful care guidelines will enable you to enjoy our beautiful products and ensure longevity.

Fabrics, Trimmings, Curtains & Linen, Cotton and Silk Cushions

Our unique fabrics are dyed using natural dyes – our Embroidery and Applique fabrics are lovingly handmade. Due to the delicate nature of our fabrics we recommend caring for these products by lightly vacuuming using an upholstery nozzle (soft brush) to prevent a build-up of dust. In the unfortunate event that the fabric gets stained, try to dab the stain as promptly as possible using a dry absorbent kitchen towel or clean cloth. For tricky stains gently wipe clean with a damp cloth. To avoid water marks ensure excess water is removed from the cloth. If using an upholstery cleaning product, please read the instructions carefully and ensure they are suitable for silk, cotton or linens and always pre-test on a small discreet area. Remember to plump up your cushions regularly to keep their shape and prevent the feathers from migrating!

Although some of our customers gently handwash our plain or striped cotton cushions, we recommend professional dry cleaning only, for all our fabric, trimmings, curtains and cushions . Please choose your dry cleaner carefully and use a reputable company. The quality of dry cleaning varies enormously, we cannot be held responsible for any damage which occurs during the dry cleaning process.

Velvet Cushions

Due to the inherent pile characteristic of velvet, the fabric is prone to leave marks when pressure is applied. The velvet fabric recovers well when lightly brushed with a soft brush. For small, light stains wipe clean with a damp cloth and leave to dry – to avoid water marks ensure excess water is removed from the cloth. After drying gently rub the pile to regain the velvet’s original appearance. Avoid using upholstery cleaning products.

Box Cushions

The beautiful cotton covering is not removable. In the event the cushion gets stained, dab the stain as promptly as possible using a dry absorbent kitchen towel or clean cloth. For tricky stains gently wipe clean with a damp cloth. To avoid water marks ensure excess water is removed from the cloth. If using an upholstery cleaning product, please read the instructions carefully and ensure they are suitable for cotton fabric and always pre-test on a small discreet area.

Chair and Garden Cushions, Table Cloths and Napkins, Oven Gloves, Dog Bed Covers, Nightwear & Bed Linen

Our machine washable products are made from 100% cotton or linen and a small amount of shrinkage will naturally occur. Washing on a high temperature or with a fast spin will cause greater shrinkage. We recommend washing on a delicate cycle at 40 degrees using a non-biological detergent – avoid using detergents containing optical whiteners, bleaching agents or enzymes – these can damage fabrics causing fading and patch marks. Always separate light and dark colours before washing to avoid colour transfer. For best results remove immediately from the washing machine and reshape whilst damp. Line dry to reduce creasing. Creasing is inherent in natural fabrics, hence why it is important to remove promptly when using washing machines. For best results iron whilst slightly damp using a steam iron.

Aga Covers

For best results we recommend hand washing separately in warm water using a gentle, non-biological hand wash detergent. Ensure the detergent is fully dissolved before placing the Aga cover into the water. For stubborn stains leave to soak, rinse well and gently wring to remove excess water. Dry flat on top of the Aga lid and steam iron to remove any creasing and regain original shape.

Handmade Quilts

Our quilts are lovingly handmade and incredibly special but they are delicate and need to be treated with care. Designed to be used with a flat sheet or duvet underneath, they do not need regular laundering. When cleaning is required, a quilt should be launderette washed and tumble dried, alone at 30°/delicates. Please note domestic appliances are not large enough and washing or drying with other items, even in a large drum may cause damage.
Our linen quilts are tightly packed for protection during transit, which may result in temporary creasing. We therefore recommend at gentle steam iron press, once unpacked and in position on your bed.

Throws

Our collection of throws are 100% wool. We recommend using a reputable dry-cleaning company with expert knowledge of natural fabrics and dyes.

Rugs

Our rugs are beautifully hand woven. We recommend vacuuming regularly to keep them clean and to remove any loose fibres. For more thorough cleaning, we recommend you use a professional rug cleaner.

Upholstered Sofas & Chairs

We recommend caring for upholstered sofas and chairs by lightly vacuuming using an upholstery nozzle (soft brush), paying attention to pleated or folded areas. Regular gentle vacuuming prevents a build-up of dust, which reduces the need for professional cleaning. When cleaning is required, we recommend you use a recognised professional upholstery cleaning company. Our sofa legs are made from wood. To care for them we advise dusting regularly with a clean cloth. Avoid using polishes that could damage the wood and stain the fabric.

Sun Damage

All reverse printed linens and cottons will fade if left in direct sunlight over time, although modern glass is often UV protective which will help. Window seats are particularly vunerable and can be a challenge for paler colours. To avoid fading, do not leave outside for long periods, when not in use. The natural linen we print on will fade in direct sun. blinds should be kept well up during the day to avoid this and curtains pulled back.