The task of handling textiles to preserve and possibly brighten colors is discussed. A classification of textile colorants is provided which discusses stains, dyes, lakes and pigments, and soils. Some terms for describing and defining color qualities are given as well as the molecular structure of dyestuffs. Dyes are classified as vegetable, animal, and mineral as well as acid, basic, direct, mordant and vat. Each type is discussed as to how it was applied and as to how it reacts with various reagents. A table of properties of dye classes lists examples of five types of dyes, with identification tests, cleaning precautions and setting agents.