Expert: Angela - 8/25/2009

Question
I have completed cross stitch patterns of my mom's that are stained from cigarette smoke. What do you suggest I clean them with?  They are scenes from downtown Charleston and she is now deceased which makes it even more important to get them cleaned.

Thank you.

Answer
Hello, Bonnie

I'm not sure if cigarette smoke could come out with the suggestion I'm about to tell you.  However, it is worth a try.

1.  Fill a CLEAN sink with barely warm water (more cool to the touch).  Add a small amount of liquid dishsoap.  Place the project into the water, and allow to sit for about 15 minutes.

2.  After 15 minutes, gently swirl the project around in the water for a minute or 2.  Drain the water.  Run the cold water, and rinse the project.

3.  Lay the project onto a clean, dry towel, and roll the project into it.  Squeeze excess water out of the project as you're rolling it into the towel.

4.  With an iron preset to cotton (about 3 setting), with steam, lay the project flat onto an ironing board, and iron the project on the wrong (back) side until the wrinkles are flattened.

5.  Lay flat to dry.

This is the only method that I use to clean my projects with.  I don't know if this will work for cigarette smoke, however, it is worth a try.

Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,

Angela :)