FAQ: Caring for Your Items
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How to keep these pieces with you, thoughtfully, over time.
Each piece is made slowly—by hand, with materials shaped by time, use, and memory. With thoughtful care, they will continue to evolve, rather than wear out.
Embroidery
Each embroidered piece carries a story—some newly stitched, others made from vintage fragments given new life. Specific care notes may vary by product, but the following principles apply in most cases.
Embroidered textiles are best handled gently and washed sparingly. For items made from vintage fabrics, cleaning has already been done before they reach you. Subtle marks, softened edges, or slight color variations may remain—these are part of their history.
If washing is necessary:
- Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent (such as silk wash)
- Brief soaking is fine; avoid scrubbing or wringing
- Slight color fading may occur—this is natural
- For the final rinse, a small amount of salt or fabric softener may help preserve color
- Gently press out excess water
- Lay flat to dry, with a layer of tissue or cloth to absorb moisture evenly
Some pieces may be ironed on low heat once fully dry. If unsure, feel free to contact us.
This method reflects long-standing local practices in Yunnan, shaped through generations of making and use.
Brocade & Woven Textiles
- Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent
- Lay flat to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated space
- Most pieces can be ironed on low heat
- Do not tumble dry
Split-Weaving Textiles
Split-weaving textiles are made to be lived with. Over time, they soften and develop a richer texture through use.
To clean:
- Hand washing with a gentle detergent is recommended
- If machine washing is necessary, place inside a mesh laundry bag
- Use a gentle cycle to avoid tension on warp threads or distortion of the fabric
General Care
- Spot clean gently with a soft, damp cloth when possible
- Avoid prolonged soaking or harsh detergents
- Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture
- Store in a dry, well-ventilated place
About Vintage Textiles
Some pieces begin with fabrics that have already lived one life—a garment, a panel, a fragment once worn and used. These materials may carry:
- Irregular stitching
- Softened fibers
- Subtle color shifts
- Traces of previous use
These are not flaws, but the natural character of handmade, time-worn textiles.
A Note on Uniqueness
Each textile comes from a different place, a different moment, and a different maker. No two pieces are ever exactly the same.
This is not limitation as scarcity — but as honesty.
A way of preserving living culture, one piece at a time.
If you have any questions about caring for a specific piece, please contact us at hello@yuntopia.cn
We are always happy to help.