Wedding/Formal Wear/Heirlooms
Specialty Division

When your bridal memories, family heirlooms, and designer garments deserve the very best, ask for the HandCraft touch! As preservation specialists, our staff is trained in the art of textile conservation. Every item cleaned is given expert, personal attention. Because we have diverse cleaning methods available, we are able to select the best method for your garment or heirloom. Some of our specialties include:

• Wedding Gown Cleaning... before and/or after your big day
• Wedding Gown Preservation with archival quality materials
• Couture and Designer Garment Care, including St. John Knits, Armani, Chanel, and Worth
• Period garment restoration and cleaning. Our clients include:
  • Maymont Foundation
  • Virginia War Memorial Foundation
  • Virginia Historical Society
  • Richmond Ballet
  • Richmond Symphony
  • Children's Museum
• Beaded, Sequined, and Formal Wear
• Christening Gowns and Family Heirlooms

Specialty Division (Wedding/Formal Wear/Heirlooms) View Larger Map
Wedding Gown Cleaning and Preservation Why do so many brides choose HandCraft? We have the experience, tools, and techniques available to remove difficult stains (even those you can’t see!), while treating the delicate fabric, lace, and beading with the care it requires. Here’s how the process works:
We will accept your gown at any of our five branch locations, where a deposit will be accepted, or you may contact our Wedding Gown Specialist, Dan Thomas to schedule an appointment at 804.212.7683 or danthomas@handcraftdrycleaners.com. Your gown is inspected and tested prior to cleaning. We analyze fabrics, dyes, and weaves, and note ornaments and their composition. Our detailed notes determine which preservation technique is right for your gown, and we provide a cost estimate. Each spot is analyzed and uniquely treated prior to the dry cleaning process. Once your gown has been pre-spotted and cleaned, it is thoroughly inspected. If necessary, repairs are made, and the gown is hand-pressed. Your gown is then carefully packed using the finest museum-quality archival materials. We will contact you when your gown is ready for pick-up, and provide instructions on proper storage techniques.