Always pretreat fabric before sewing to remove chemical sizing from the manufacturing process. This gives you a better sense of the true drape and handfeel of a fabric. We recommend caring for your fabric in the same way you intend to care your finished garment. Heavier wools like coating should not be washed, but it is very important to remove as much shrinkage as possible before sewing. While it can be taken to the drycleaner for professional steam-shrinking, here’s an easy home hack for less delicate wool. Fill your dryer with damp towels and tumble dry on medium for 20-30 minutes. The steam from the towels will shrink and condition the wool. Use a warm iron with lots of steam when pressing; a press cloth will help prevent 'shine' left from a too hot iron.

Hang finished coat in between uses in an area with good air flow. Spot clean when stains occur making sure not to rub. Store in a garment bag in between seasons.

When interfacing wool, use a press cloth to apply as it protects your wool from overpressing and your iron from melted adhesive. When possible use 'weft' interfacing. Knit interfacing also works in a pinch.