Vintage Fabric Questions!

[Former_Member]

Hello!

I'm extremely excited to have found this team! I've been an Etsy member for some years, but only recently returned and have not finished my shop setup as of yet. I do have some questions about vintage and retro fabrics, though!

Firstly, how does one go about finding the date of production or make on a fabric? I've searched all over the internet for information about one of my lengths of fabric, but have found nothing (even with an image search!).

How does one price such fabric? Admittedly, and obviously by my lack of knowledge here, I have never sold any vintage fabrics. Also, are there any laws pertaining the resale of old fabric? I would imagine that there are issues of copyright,, but without any knowledge of whether the fabric is still held under copyright, how do you proceed?

The last question I have (for now! Lol) is if anyone might know about this fabric>> http://i.imgur.com/0dKPZ57.jpg

I know that it is at least from the 60's or 70's; it could be older. It was made by Siltex, but there are no other markings but the copyright on the selvage. I inherited it from my grandmother's fabric hoard and she had not bought fabric since the 70's. Any help would be so, so appreciated! Thank you in advance!

- Crystal

[tailoredchaos]

Do you know the fiber content? I don't think you have to worry about copyright infringement as you are selling the fabric and not reprinting the design onto new fabric to sell. Pricing vintage fabrics can be tricky, try searching key words that pertain in general to the overall type of fabric you have and the print style of your fabric to get a general idea of what other people are selling their similar items at. You have a unique and interesting print, but fiber content will also play a part in determining the value of your fabric. I generally start known vintage fabrics at about $8/yd and if it's rare, a highly sought-after print or fiber content (like silk or satin or canvas) then I will raise the price higher. Hope that helps!

Also, I suggest you make this discussion private rather than public so that only team members can see it.

[Former_Member]

Hello Tailored Chaos!

The fabric is some sort of polyester/synthetic. I did a burn test and the piece melted, and had smelly fumes. Definitely not anything as fine as satin! I will refine my search a bit as you suggested and see what I get. I really appreciate your input! :)

I don't know how to make my thread private. I've looked through the options but can't find how to do it. :/

Thanks again!

- Crystal