Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by David Phillips on October 19, 2014 at 1:07am

I guess it all depends on how much you're wanting to include on the label... I am by no means an expert, but some methods I have used in different venues were as simple as a laundry marker which is probably your easiest. The more durable method is sewing in custom ordered labels but it sounds like that isn't an option. You might try iron-in labels, but sometimes that creates a stiff spot in the fabric or discolors, or the fabric can't handle the heat... A few places have done this with a bar code scanner, connecting costumes, props, etc all into one database but that usually is out of the budget range... Either way, it's no small task, no matter how small your department is... Best of luck.

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Permalink Reply by Dana Leach on October 27, 2014 at 11:21am

If the label is so it can go out for rentals, then sewing in is the best option. If it is for organizational reasons try a a luggage card style card that you find in office supplies. Write the size of the garment on one side and a number on the other. Use a laundry marker and put the tag number in the garment, then use a spread sheet to put all the info for that garment number, size, shoe, who rented to, washing instruction, alterations, or anything else you want. Later you can always add sew in labels as you use them for each show or when you have down time.

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Permalink Reply by Sara Elizabeth Gable on October 27, 2014 at 11:49am

In a pinch, fusible interfacing with a fabric marker number or name works really well, but like David said: you have to make sure the garment can handle the heat. But, as crappy as it is to tell you: sewing in is the most durable option and will ensure your actors are wearing what they are supposed to be wearing, when they are supposed to if they have multiple changes (numbering outfits helps to actor-proof the run).

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Permalink Reply by Sheila Sky on October 27, 2014 at 2:17pm

You can cut the hand sewing in half by folding the label and stitching the two short edges to the garment at the same time. Or perhaps one of the pricing guns used by retailers could be used to affix the tags.

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Permalink Reply by Caitlen Hudak on October 27, 2014 at 2:39pm

I like the idea of the piercing guns, but I don't trust them not to pop them off when they itch. This is an interpretation museum where the actors/interpretors are wearing their costume for 8+ hours a day. I have the same concern for the luggage tags. Also, would those melt or dissolve when washed? Some of the pieces are machine washable, and if I add anymore to the "must be dry cleaned" selection they may kick me out of here.
Now, this fusible interface, what is it exactly?
Also, thank you all for taking the time to reply. I REALLY appreciate this!

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Permalink Reply by Erich Friend on October 28, 2014 at 12:48am

One good resource is: www.costumeinventory.com

Also consider putting RFID tags into the costumes (or hats, shoes, gloves, etc.). There are special versions that can take the abuse of washing, drying, and dry-cleaning. RFID readers are fairly inexpensive, and the tags can be obtained for as little as $1 each. The ones that sew-on and look like a button are easy to locate visually (or by feel if inside a fold).

Any system you use is only as good as the data you put into it. It takes some time to initially build your database, but then it can be come a routine part of your additions and repairs to your inventory.

One good data field to have is a description of the fire retardant treatment that has been applied, if any, along with notes about the retreatment that may be required after cleaning. This can help your staff to keep the correct treatment chemicals in stock and act as a reminder to use them.

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Permalink Reply by Christine G. Dougherty on October 28, 2014 at 5:28am

I rent out our costumes (HS Theatre program). I have used two things. I found a fabric stamp. I will have to look for where I purchased it (it's been a few years) also I found labels that you choose what you want printed on them and they can be ironed into your costume, sewing is the goal, but in a pinch this works.

Manhattan Wardrobe supply is a website that has theatrical supplies...

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Permalink Reply by Robert D. Carver on October 28, 2014 at 6:29am

Categorize and store costumes by historical period, size and gender-appropriateness. When I was in undergraduate school, we performed "Once Upon A Mattress" my freshman year and "Romeo & Juliet" my senior year. Although new costumes were designed and built for principal characters in the latter, and color-coded for Montagues & Capulets, clothing for the supporting ensemble was pulled from stock.

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