Came in contact with a shawl named piano shawl and you don’t know what they are actually used for? What is a piano shawl? Can you wear it or is it just for a piano? Why it is named that way? Relax, you are gonna find all of your answers regarding the piano shawl here.
As the name suggests, a piano shawl was originally made for baby grand pianos, to protect them and also in a way that they can decorate and enhance the beauty of the hall. Later, these shawls were used as decorated items for the living room and also as a fashion items for women. Giddy up to know more about this exquisite shawl!
What Is A Piano Shawl?
A piano shawl is a large square or rectangular piece of fabric used to dress up a grand piano’s top surface. It protects the piano from nicks, scratches, and elements in a practical way. Many of these shawls, on the other hand, are quite ornate and can also be used as decoration.
Since the 1960s, the Piano Shawl, named after its original use as a decoration for pianos or dressing tables, has gone in and out of style.
1. Piano Shawl Design
Piano shawls are typically constructed of thick silk. For this reason, the fabric glides easily onto the surface of a piano, held in place by both its own weight and the weight of the embroidery.
On the plain silk fabric of the piano shawl, high embroidery in bright colors and designs is usually created by talented designers. Flowers and environmental scenes are frequently featured in those patterns.
Long fringe is also commonly used to edge piano shawls. Not only does the fringe look lovely, but it also aids in evenly draping the shawl over the piano.
2. Usage of Piano Shawls
Piano shawls were very popular during the Victorian era when having a piano in the living room was thought to be the pinnacle of luxury. These shawls were used to decorate the top surface of the piano as well as a cover from dust or scratches. They were also often used as room decorations of any type in the 60s and 70s.
The piano shawl was not only used as a decoration but was also merged into women’s attire. A shawl hangs elegantly on a woman’s body, much as it does on a grand piano. When utilized as clothes, piano shawls are frequently used as evening wear accessories.
Piano shawls are appropriate for wearing over-dresses or even cocktail dresses. They also provide adequate warmth and can be worn as a fashionable alternative to a coat in cold times. The piano shawl was also frequently featured in art as decoration and dresses after the Victorian era.
How to Get Piano Shawls?
Piano shawls are no longer popular as they were once, so it can be very hard to find a freshly made one. If you want to buy a piano shawl, you should go to the antique market, auctions, or from a specialist in antique clothing or fabrics. There are chances you will find old piano shawls that are still in excellent condition.
If you find an antique shawl on online businesses, make sure to interact directly with the vendor to evaluate the fabric’s condition before making a purchase.
How to Preserve Piano Shawls?
The materials of piano shawls can be pretty delicate. So, if you want to keep them in good condition, don’t wear your shawl or throw it over a sofa or table like you are a Victorian lord!
Dust and light can cause irreversible damage and fade to your shawls, so store them properly where light can’t reach them. Pack the shawls in cardboard boxes rather than plastic bags, and wrap them in acid-free tissue paper.
If there are any damages or problems, repairs are possible in most cases, although they can be costlier than you can imagine. In doubt about any problem regarding a piano shawl, it’s best to consult with museum textile experts.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What’s the difference between a shawl and a blanket?
A blanket is a heavy, large, loosely woven, and woolen item to use for warmth. On the other hand, the shawl is a small, lighter rectangular, or triangular piece of cloth used as a covering, to gain warmth, or for decorative purposes.
Are scarf and shawl the same?
No, scarves and shawls are totally different. The shawl is slightly bigger than a scarf. They also serve different purposes, a scarf is only used to cover your head or neck. But the shawl can also cover the upper part of your body. Also, a shawl can provide warmth that a scarf can not.
Ending Statement
Now you know what is a piano shawl, maybe you are going to buy one to look fabulous for different occasions. Don’t just purchase one without knowing the condition of the shawl. And after every wear, store it properly so that you don’t need to spend a lot for restoring or replacing the beautiful shawl.
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