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Cross Stitch/afghans,cotton verses acrylic/poly

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Expert: Angela - 1/10/2010


Question
Hi,I am going to attempt to cross stitch an afghan.I have a beautiful pansy pattern.What material should I look for in fabric? Some say 100%cotton others are acrylic.What is best nd what are the differences?Have you got to wash cotton ones before you begin stitching to allow for shrinkage?What looks the best fr longer? can you help me? regards,Karen


Answer
Hello, Karen

Unfortunately, I haven't ever stitched an afghan yet, and I have a full one as well as a baby one to stitch.  The only thing that I can suggest is if you're going to stitch your design onto cotton, prewash it in cold water before stitching it.  Warm water may make it shrink too much, I'm thinking.  Otherwise, I apologize for not being able to answer your questions for you.

Sincerely,

Angela

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Angela

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I have 22+ years of cross stitching experience, which includes stitching on Aida, evenweave linen, vinyl canvas, and have stitched a design on a cotton t-shirt using waste canvas. I have also worked with beads and blending filament in quite a few projects. I have made many projects which include cross stitched mugs, a keychain, pictures, magnets, and the cotton t-shirt. I can answer questions pertaining to preparing and cleaning fabric, preparing clothing for stitching, how many threads to be used on which Aida cloth, and will try to help you to the best of my ability with other questions you may have. I am prompt in my responses and usually answer within 24 hours from when you ask your question. I look forward to helping you. :)

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