Introductory remarks assess goals and risks in textile conservation and define an ethical framework rejecting the principles of reversibility of treatment and integrity of the object. Presents three basic nondestructive tests designed to provide a good (but not infallible) determination of dye stability in the tested solvent (water, water and detergent, or perchloroethane). The tests are: the swab test, carried out with a cotton swab and a certain quantity of solvent; 2) the blotting test, carried out with white blotter paper and an increased amount of fluid; 3) the drying test, a continuation of the two previous tests. At each step, further information is given on the site location to consider, the time element, and the physical motions involved. Subsequent articles are announced that will deal with other aspects of textile conservation.