Expert: Angela - 12/11/2006

Question
I have many different cross stitch pieces that I am trying to put together into a quilt. Some of the pieces are almost 10 years old and the once white aida cloth has begun to turn tan. Also, on several of the pieces, the dark red and blue DMC flosses have bled their color to the surrounding cloth. Only one of the pieces has beads, the rest are done with regular DMC thread, no embellishments.

How do I clean these fabrics, and try to remove the stains? Is there a specific way to "block" the fabrics as they are drying to prevent shrinkage? Thank you!

Answer
Hello, Katie :)

You can try washing this stitchery by doing the following:

1.  In a clean sink, fill it about 1/4 with tepid (barely warm to the touch, more cool than anything) water, and add a tiny bit of liquid dishsoap.  Insert stitchery, and allow to sit for about 15 minutes.  After 15 minutes is up, gently swish stitchery around to remove any excess dirt.

2.  Drain sink, and rinse stitchery under cold water until it runs clean from soap suds.

3.  Lay flat on a towel, and roll into towel, gently squeezing excess water from stitchery.  Remove from towel, and lay wrong side up onto ironing board.  With an iron preset to cotton (with steam, if possible), iron on wrong side until wrinkles are no longer there.

4.  Either lay flat, or hang to dry.

I hope this helps.  You may need to use a soft bristled brush (preferrably clean or brand new, even a new, unused toothbrush would work) to remove any other soiled spots before you take it out of the water.

Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,

Angela :)