Rhiannon Hendricks
Boxing a wedding dress is an important step in preserving the gown for future use or for sentimental reasons. The process of boxing a wedding dress involves selecting the right box, preparing the dress, and folding it carefully with acid-free tissue paper to prevent discolouration and decay. The boxed gown should then be stored in a safe, dry, and dark location, away from extreme temperatures and insects. This process ensures the wedding dress remains in good condition for an extended period, allowing brides to cherish their gowns even after their wedding day.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right box
When choosing a box to store your wedding dress, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the box should be made of acid-free materials. Acid from packaging materials can pass into the fabric of the dress over time, causing discolouration and yellowing. Therefore, it is crucial to select a box specifically designed for wedding dress storage or made of acid-free, pH-neutral board.
Secondly, the size of the box is important. The box should be big enough to accommodate the dress without crushing or damaging any delicate details. A typical wedding dress may require a box measuring around 43 x 30 x 14 cm or 18 x 16 x 9 inches, but it is recommended to measure the dress itself as sizes can vary. Additionally, consider the weight of the box, especially if you intend to ship the dress, as shipping costs may be calculated based on cubic weight.
Thirdly, the box should be sturdy and durable. A heavy-duty cardboard box with a tight-fitting lid will protect the dress from dust, insects, light, and accidental damage. If you opt for a box with a window, choose one with an acetate screen instead of plastic. Ensure that the box is made of breathable material and has no gaps between the lid and base to keep insects out.
Finally, consider the aesthetics of the box, especially if you plan to store the box in a visible location like a wardrobe. Some companies offer beautiful wedding dress boxes that can complement the dress itself and become a decorative element in your space. Additionally, you may want to consider adding a note or a ribbon inside the box for a personal touch.
Overall, choosing the right box for your wedding dress involves selecting a sturdy, acid-free container that is the appropriate size and has a secure lid. By considering these factors, you can ensure the dress remains well-preserved and protected for years to come.
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Preparing the dress
Next, you should carefully and loosely fold the dress, layering it with white, acid-free tissue paper to prevent any beads from snagging on the fabric. Always use colourless tissue paper as the dye in coloured paper could transfer onto the dress. When folding, wrap the sleeves under the bodice and then fold the skirt over the bodice. You should then wrap the folded dress in unbleached muslin before putting it in the box. If you are storing your veil with your dress, make sure to separate the two with a layer of tissue paper.
Finally, place the dress in the box. The box should be just big enough to fit the dress without being too small and damaging any fine details, but also without being too big, as this will increase shipping costs. The box should be made of heavy-duty cardboard with a tight-fitting lid to protect the dress from dust, insects and light. If you have opted for a box with a window, choose an acetate screen over a plastic one.
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Folding the dress
When folding a wedding dress, it is important to be gentle and careful. Firstly, make sure your hands are clean and that you have a clean, sturdy box ready. The box should be big enough to fit the dress without damaging any details, but not too big that it wastes space. It should also be made of acid-free, pH-neutral materials to prevent discolouration and decay.
Next, layer the dress with white, acid-free tissue paper to prevent any beads from snagging on the fabric. Wrap the sleeves under the bodice, and then fold the skirt up and over the bodice. As you fold, continue to layer the dress with tissue paper. Finally, wrap the folded dress in unbleached muslin before putting it in the box.
If you are storing a veil with your dress, make sure that a layer of tissue paper separates the two. It is also important to note that wedding dresses should be stored separately from other items of clothing to prevent damage to the fabric. Shoes and other accessories should be stored in a separate box.
To best preserve your dress, keep it out of direct sunlight and store it in a safe, dry room that is not prone to damp or insects. It is also recommended to check on the condition of the dress every six months and repackage it annually to prevent permanent creases.
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Sealing the box
Choose the Right Box
Select a sturdy, heavy-duty cardboard box specifically designed for wedding dress storage. Ensure it is made with special pH-neutral board or acid-free materials to prevent discolouration and yellowing of the dress over time. The box should be just big enough to fit the dress without causing crushing or damage to any fine details.
Fold and Wrap the Dress
Before placing the dress in the box, carefully fold it, layering it with white, acid-free tissue paper to prevent any beads or decorations from snagging on the fabric. Wrap the sleeves under the bodice and then fold the skirt over the bodice. You can also wrap the entire folded dress in unbleached muslin for added protection.
Seal the Box Shut
Use strong adhesive tape, preferably 2 inches wide or wider, to securely seal all edges and seams of the box. Go over the openings several times to ensure a tight seal. If you have a shipping label, tape it securely to the box, avoiding any seams, and consider taping a duplicate label inside the box as well.
Store in a Safe Location
Find a safe, clean, and dry room to store the box, away from temperature extremes, direct sunlight, and any history of insects. A spare room or a personal self-storage unit can be ideal locations. Avoid attics, as they can be prone to leaks, dampness, and insects, which can damage the dress.
Regularly Check on the Dress
Even with the best sealing and storage practices, it is essential to check on the condition of the dress periodically. Every six months or so, open the box and inspect the dress. Consider repackaging it annually to prevent permanent creases from setting in.
By following these steps for sealing the box and storing the wedding dress, you can ensure its preservation for years to come.
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Storing the box
Storing your wedding dress in a box is a great way to preserve the dress and prevent damage. Here are some key things to keep in mind when storing your wedding dress:
Choose the Right Box
Select a sturdy box that is specifically designed for wedding dress storage. The box should be made of heavy-duty, acid-free material to protect the dress from insects, sunlight, dust, and discolouration. Avoid using plastic or regular cardboard boxes, as they can trap moisture and cause discolouration.
Prepare the Dress
Before placing the dress in the box, it is essential to have it professionally cleaned by a specialist dry cleaner. This will remove any stains and help deter insects. Use acid-free tissue paper to stuff the dress and prevent fibre breakage. Make sure to stuff the tissue paper into the arms and any other delicate areas of the dress. Wrap the entire surface of the dress with acid-free tissue paper to ensure no part of the fabric is exposed.
Store in a Suitable Location
Choose a storage location that is cool, dry, and dark, such as a closet or a guest room. Avoid storing the dress near heat sources, excessive moisture, or direct sunlight, as extreme temperatures can cause damage and discolouration. Keep the dress away from cooking or smoking odours, which can permeate the fabric over time. Ensure that the storage area has good humidity control to maintain stable humidity levels around the dress.
Leave the Box Sealed
Resist the temptation to open the box and take out the dress. Wedding dress boxes are designed to keep air out, as oxygen can cause oxidation, leading to yellowing and other types of damage. If you need to open the box, make sure your hands are clean and properly reseal the box afterward.
Regularly Check on the Dress
While long-term storage is meant to preserve your wedding dress, it is important to check on the dress periodically to ensure it remains in good condition. Over time, factors such as humidity and insects can still affect the dress, so regular inspections can help catch any potential issues early on.
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Frequently asked questions
You should use a sturdy, heavy-duty cardboard box that is pH neutral and acid-free to protect the dress from dust, insects, light, and discolouration. The box should be big enough to fit the dress without damaging any fine details, but not so big that it incurs unnecessary shipping costs.
You should have your wedding dress professionally cleaned by a dry cleaner that specialises in wedding dresses. You should also ensure your hands are clean before handling the dress. Then, carefully fold the dress loosely and layer it with white, acid-free tissue paper to prevent any beads from snagging on the fabric. Finally, wrap the folded dress in unbleached muslin before placing it in the box.
Seal all edges and seams of the box with strong, 2” wide or wider mailing tape. Put a duplicate shipping label inside the box, but not in direct contact with the dress, in case the outside label is damaged. Mark the box with the words "WEDDING GOWN" so that delivery people know to treat it with respect.
