After looking at the slides, specific pairs of shoes can be requested. Appointments to look at swatch cards or to cut swatches in the Francoise de la Renta Color Room are unassisted. If you would like to look at the main textile collection, laces, embroidering or beading samples, sample books, jacquard point papers, velvets, etc. These are usually one hour long. Each design member may borrow up to 30 swatches for one month.
Many designers sketch or measure objects.
Color copies of swatch cards can now be made in the textile area for one dollar each, or you can request that slides or prints be taken of an object or a detail for your research for an additional fee. Gloves and lab coats are provided by the museum. Pencils must be used for sketching because no ink is allowed in the collection. As a design member, you will also receive notifications about museum events. For more information on membership, contact the Textile Department at 212.217 5701. .