Expert: Angela - 7/7/2006

Question
My cross stitch project (a stocking for my daughter) was in my bag and my dog peed on the bag.  I threw the bag (and everything in it except for the cross stitch)away because the smell is SO bad.  Today, when I went to work on it again, the piece smells VERY bad, too.  It was inside a ziploc bag and all the floss and piece smell.  Can you give me any safe suggestions to remove the smell?  Otherwise, I guess I'll have to start over.  I have the fabric and more floss...it's the HOURS of work lost that makes me upset.  HELP!

Answer
Hello, Cynthia

Other than using a product called OUT! Pet Stain and Odor Remover (product found at Wal-Mart), I can't think of anything that can get rid of that smell.  Unfortunately, I'm not even positive that OUT! will be safe on cross stitching.

The only suggestion that I have is to start over and toss that one out.  I know it's a lot of work, however, it's always better to have a nice clean project completed to give to someone.  When you need to put it away for the night, place it in a bag and put it somewhere so that it won't get ruined (a closet, or even a craft draw, or a craft container if you have one).  I'm currently working on a rather large and detailed Lavender and Lace wedding present, complete with beads and gold metallic thread, and when I'm finished for the night, I place it in a bag, and put it on my craft table.  I have cats, and I don't want them messing with it.  A spray bottle worked well to train them to not mess with it. hehe

I hope this helps.  Good luck, and happy stitching. :)

Sincerely,
Angela