As the weather shifts and the days grow shorter, I find myself naturally slowing down - tidying the studio, organizing fabrics, and rotating my wardrobe. Handmade clothing carries a different kind of weight. Every stitch, every fabric choice, holds the memory of the time and care it took to make it. So when the season changes, I like to pause and make sure each piece is cared for properly before it rests for a while. This week’s Slow Stitch Sunday is all about preserving your handmade wardrobe so it can last for years to come, and feel just as special when you bring it back out next season.
Mend and Refresh Before You Store
Before tucking anything away, take a moment to look over each piece. Is a button loose? A hem coming undone? A seam stretched? A few small stitches now can save bigger repairs later. Even if you don’t have time to fix everything right away, make a small “to mend” pile. Having those pieces set aside ensures they’ll be ready to wear again when you need them. Tip: Lightly steam or hand wash your garments before storing. Natural fibers like linen, wool, and cotton appreciate being clean and aired out - dirt or body oils can attract moths or weaken fibers over time.
Choose Breathable Storage Options
Plastic bins might seem convenient, but your handmade pieces prefer to breathe. Use cotton garment bags, canvas bins, or even old pillowcases to store folded clothing. If you hang items, opt for padded hangers that won’t leave marks on delicate fabrics. A few sprigs of lavender or cedar chips between garments help handmade items smell lovely and naturally deter moths.
Fold or Hang with Intention
Some garments do better folded flat, like knits and heavier skirts, while lighter blouses or structured dresses can hang without issue. Try to avoid overcrowding your hangers; a little air circulation keeps fabrics from creasing or warping. When folding, place acid-free tissue between layers to reduce pressure on seams.
Protect Against Humidity and Light
Store clothing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade natural dyes over time. If your space tends to get damp, silica packs or cedar blocks can help balance moisture. If you’re storing items long-term, check them halfway through the season. Give them a gentle shake-out or refold to keep fibers relaxed and refreshed.
Rotate with the Seasons
When you bring your pieces back out in the spring, take a moment to reconnect with them. Steam out the folds, make any final adjustments, and notice how your style may have evolved. One of the most beautiful parts of handmade fashion is how it grows with you - every season, every chapter.
A Slow Wardrobe Is a Living Wardrobe
Caring for handmade garments isn’t about perfection, it’s about care and attention. Each time you wash, mend, or refold something, you’re participating in the quiet rhythm of sustainable fashion, making things last. As you transition into the cooler months, give your clothes the same gentleness you give your craft - and they’ll serve you season after season.
Until next Sunday,
