	History of Silk
	Your Lynne Kiel Original
	Care of your Silk Attire
	Cotton & Polar Fleece

Order Information

Silk

History of Silk
Your Lynne Kiel Original
Care of your Silk Attire
Cotton & Polar Fleece

History of Silk

It is believed that silk, the most modern of natural fabrics was discovered around 2600 BC by a Chinese princess. Some years later, Empress Si Ling-chi sponsored the cultivation of silk (raising silkworms for silk, instead of relying on Mother Nature). This allowed silk to be produced more efficiently, and soon this luxurious fabric became a very popular and very valuable trade item.

For 3000 years, China fiercely protected their silk secrets. Raw silk was exported and traded for fabulous prices, but up until the 6th century, exporting silkworm eggs was punishable by death. The value of silk, however, seemed to have made the risk worthwhile. In 550 A.D., two former missionaries smuggled mulberry tree seeds and silkworm eggs out of China in hollowed-out walking sticks. This infuriated Emperor Justinian, but the secret was out. Soon, Byzantium became famous for its silk textiles and embroideries. Next, the knowledge spread throughout Northern Africa , then Spain, Italy, France and eventually England. There were even attempts to create a silk trade in the American colonies, but that ended with the American Revolution.

Your Lynne Kiel Original

Although many countries now produce this luxurious fabric, China continues to be a leader in the silk industry. Lynne orders top quality silk from mainland China, where it is custom dyed. Lynne cuts each piece of your garment, which is washed and pressed before assembly. Lynne's handpainted panels and appliques begin as white charmeuse silk, which is then painted using high quality Dupont Dye from France to create a beautiful ensemble.

Lynne's commitment to top-quality, pure silk and meticulous craftsmanship ensures that your garment will continue to look, feel and wear better for many years to come.

Care of your Silk Attire

Dry Clean Please.

To keep your Lynne Kiel Original looking brand new, Lynne suggests dry cleaning everything B especially your kimono, jacket, blouse, scarf and shawl.

Solid coloured pants, skirts and camisoles would benefit from dry cleaning, but they can be hand washed in cold water. If you do decide to hand wash, please, be very careful ironing, and never use anything harsher then a gentle detergent!

Cotton & Polar Fleece

All Lynne Kiel Original cotton t-shirts can be machine washed. To protect the handpainted silk applique, turn the item inside out and wash on delicate in cold water. Please, do not use bleach, finish ironing with steam, medium heat.