Lace chapel veils are very delicate,

but with a little care your 

mantilla may last for generations.

Perhaps your veil will become an

heirloom to be passed down to a loved one,

maybe a daughter or a granddaughter.

I have a couple of treasured veils

of my mother's that are of great sentimental value.

Perhaps one day a daughter of yours will say the same!

Washing:

Like a good wine and great women, lace gets better when its aged a bit. That's because lace gets softer with each washing and each wear.

Rosa Mystica veils should be hand washed in a sink that's been rinsed out. (You'll want rinse it first in order to remove any residue from cleaners or other detergents.) Chapel veils are best washed in cool water. About a tablespoon or two of mild liquid detergent is enough. Dilute the soap in the sink water rather then applying the soap directly to the lace--especially if the detergent is blue and your veil is white. (!) If possible, avoid any scrubbing, as this could damage the delicate fibers. Just gently work the soapy water through the veil using your fingertips for maybe 30 seconds or so. Empty the sink and rinse the lace thoroughly in running water. Gently squeeze out the excess water. This is an easy way to preserve your veil that takes little effort compared to other fragile garments.


Drying:

After washing, your veil should be laid out on a clean towel and air dried, flat. It will dry very quickly. Never put your veil in the dryer. Ironing is unnecessary for Rosa Mystica veils, but with a few RM mantillas (such as those with tucks in the trim), some ladies might opt for ironing in order to give a crisp finish to the creases. But be careful! It's very easy to singe your veil. Put you iron setting on low. Place a thin towel or a press a cloth over the top of the veil and iron for no more than a few seconds.

Maintenance:

Keep each of your chapel veils in a pouch, preferably one without a zipper, as the lace can sometimes get stuck between the teeth, causing snags. I think it's a nice touch to keep the pouched veils next to some sachets in the dresser drawer so they'll pick up a little of the scent. It's also a good idea to keep a pouched veil in your purse and maybe even one in the glove compartment of your car. The latter is really a good idea in case you're like me and sometimes forget a veil when switching purses. 

A complementary pouch for your chapel veil is your gift with each veil purchase.
Rosa Mystica