Antiques 101: 10 Tips for Collecting Vintage Linens

Antique linens and textiles have long been on the list of desirables for collectors thanks to their quality workmanship, versatility, and usefulness even in a modern household. Which textiles are "hot" in the market changes through the years, though. Which ones are hot right now? Look for grain & feed sacks, European textiles (flax, hemp, linen), quilts from the 1800’s-1930’s, ticking stripe, monogrammed and embroidered linens and woven coverlets. Quality is key: select pieces that are in good, useable condition.

Antique markets and stores are a great place to start but if you’re looking for something specific, an online antique marketplace or auction will give you access to a larger inventory from all over the world. There's an abundance of linens available from the 1940s-1960s that can be bought for pennies, so be specific about what you’re looking for and don’t overpay for common vintage linens.

The desired condition of antique linens is a matter of preference but if you intend to use them, they need to be intact enough to survive washing. Some staining is common with vintage linens but holes, tears, threadbare areas and fraying can be signs of deteriorating fabric and an indication that a piece isn’t going to be functional for long. If you’re looking for material for sewing projects or "cutters", these imperfections can result in a deeply discounted price. Just make sure you have the sewing ability, the time, and the inclination to follow through on that project.

Some textiles will be washed and pressed by the dealer, but oftentimes, they're sold as is. Old fabrics and linens are often musty, dirty, stained and/or yellow. As a rule of thumb, I will not purchase a piece if it can’t be thrown in the wash. To remove stains: Soak the textile in a tub filled with hot water and an oxygen-activated detergent (not bleach). Keep draining and adding fresh water and detergent until the water is clean (or relatively clean). Wash in the machine on the delicate cycle, then dry on low or line dry. Drying linens in the grass on a sunny day will also help with whitening. Smaller linens can be boiled on the stove in water with a little bit of vinegar added to get them extra white and super soft. Note: Some antique fabrics were dyed using vegetable dye and/or indigo. In those cases, the dyes might run when washed. If you’re washing a colorful textile, like a quilt or fabric, try soaking one corner in a small bowl of water and detergent to test colorfastness.