How To Fold Priest Vestments

The subject for today is packing the priestly vestment set (both Russian and Greek/Serbian styles).

Last time, we discussed undercassock folding. However, only a few techniques we showed would be completely suitable for a vestment set. First off, they are made of a much thicker material than undercassocks, which is easily damaged when bent. Second, these products include numerous adornments, with some very vulnerable parts like velvet strips and needlework. Last but not least, packing a set of many objects differs from packing a single item.

Again, we consulted our sisters at the sewing workshop. We posed them the same question: how should a vestment set be transported without creasing or other damage so that it can be put on right away upon arrival? We asked them to focus on the methods that our readers could use in any situation or with any level of experience.

Method 1. With a hanger in the car.

The sisters agree that the simplest way to fit the set into a vehicle trunk is to place it in a garment bag without removing it from the hanger. That way, you can skip the folding, although you might have to tuck the edges in slightly to fit it. The set will be protected from getting creases or dirt.

Method 2. Without hanger (for air travel)

But what if you do not have a garment case, your car's trunk is too small, or you are flying instead of driving?

As a result, the sisters propose another option, which may be more time-consuming and labour-intensive but is also the safest and most trustworthy. At the workshop, they use this method to pack the finished vestments for delivery to сustomers.

You will not need a hanger to succeed, but a zippered clothing case will be necessary. The workshop provides one to each consumer who purchases a vestment. It can also be procured via specialist websites or stores.

Click on the video below to see folding of Greek/Serbian style vestment:

Fold the phelonion lengthwise first. Place the epitrachelion on top and fold to match the width. Put the palitsa, cuffs and other small pieces inside to protect them from slipping out or becoming wrinkled. Finally, place the belt across and tuck it around the edges.

Use the entire length of the case while folding the set across, but avoid bending embroidered pieces or stiffened fabric areas. Flatten the folds on both sides to reduce wrinkling when travelling.

The Russian-style vestment set is distinct by the stiffened collar of the phelonion. As a result, specific techniques should be used for folding a Russian vestment set.

Click on the video below to see folding of Russian style vestment:

Begin with the phelonion and make it the same width as the stiffened collar. Unlike the Greek-style set, the width is also the width of the case and varies with product size.

Fold the sides as closely as possible to the stiffened collar area, but avoid bending any present velvet. To fit within the phelonion, fold the epitrachelion into two or more layers, depending on its size. Do not apply too much force to protect the cloth. Larger epitrachelia are folded in half, with the edges wrapped within. To prevent the smaller pieces from falling out, place them inside.

The more we observe the sisters at work, the more we are in awe of their exquisite sense of beauty, precise and refined techniques, and wonderful style. One line always aligns with the next in every object they fold, and the most beautiful pieces are placed in the centre. Even though a large portion of this work is out of sight, the immense skill, talent, and love that goes into it always yield results that are unmatched in perfection.

To see it for yourself, have a look at the videos above where Sister Galina folding a set of vestments.

We pray that everyone can keep an open heart and mind to God's beauty in this world and the presence of His lovely image in each and every person.