Expert: Angela - 5/3/2004

Question
Hi!. I have a cross- stitch piece that needs to be cleaned. It has yellowed from smoke and age and it was framed. I have taken it out of the frame but come to find out it is on a piece of board that I can't get it off of. If I soak it, it will ruin the board. What can I use to clean it? Will carpet cleaner do the trick?  

Answer
Hello, Mary. :)

No, don't use carpet cleaner on something like that.  It's not made for fine embroidery, just carpets.  Unfortunately, I don't think that there is anything you can use on your stitched piece while it's still mounted on the board.  The only thing that I can suggest, and hope that it works, is try using a steam iron to remove the board from the stitchery.  DON'T put the iron on the project itself, but instead, hold the iron just a couple of inches above the project to allow the steam to go through the project and onto the board.  Then you can clean the stitchery by hand in tepid water with some liquid dishsoap.  Allow to soak for about 5-10 minutes, gently rubbing it together.  If there are any soiled marks, then take a clean soft toothbrush and gently scrub those areas until they're clean or near to clean as possible.  Then, roll your project into a clean towel, and gently squeeze the excess water out of the project.  Lay flat onto an ironingboard, and having the iron on a gentle setting, iron the project on the wrong side.  IF there are any beadwork, or specialty threads, DO NOT iron them as it will ruin the project.  Lay flat and allow to air dry.

You can remount the stitchery on a fresh board.  I would recommend an acid free foam board to remount your stitchery on.

I hope this helps. :)

Sincerely,
Angela :)