Expert: Angela - 8/14/2006

Question
I started a large project (198H x 242W) when I was in high school. Unfortunately, I wound the fabric incorrectly so that I was touching the front when I held it. As you can imagine, it's very soiled. It was stitched on 29 count cream linen. I'm not sure if I should try to clean it myself with Woolite or a similar gentle cleanser, if I should take it to a dry cleaner, or if there's another solution I haven't thought of. Please let me know what you'd advise.  Thank you!

Answer
Hello, Annabel :)

You're correct in trying either Woolite or a similar product.  Even mild dishwashing liquid will do, as well.  I've used dishwashing liquid when cleaning my projects.

To clean your project, follow these steps:

1.  In a clean sink (you will need to make sure that the sink is scrubbed clean before placing your project into it), fill it just about 1/4 of the way with barely warm water (tepid).

2.  Use a small amount of either Woolite or dishwashing liquid, and swish the water to create bubbles.

3.  Place your project into the water, gently swirl it around, and allow to soak for about 5 minutes.

4.  IF you find any soiling on the project, either use a brand new soft bristled toothbrush to gently brush any soiling off, or try to use your fingers and gently rub the soiling off.  You may find that the toothbrush may work better.

5.  Rinse under cool water, until water runs clear.

6.  Place onto a towel, and roll into towel, gently squeezing excess water out of the project.

7.  Lay wrong side up on an ironing board, and with an iron preset to cotton (setting 3, and steam), iron on wrong side to remove any wrinkles.  PLEASE NOTE:  IF YOU HAVE USED EITHER BEADS OR ANY SPECIALTY THREADS (IE. BLENDING FILAMENT, GOLD METALLIC THREADS, ETC.), DO NOT IRON THOSE AREAS.  INSTEAD, KEEP SPRITZING WATER ONTO THOSE AREAS, AND GENTLY PULL THE FABRIC UNTIL THE WRINKLES ARE OUT.  IRONING THESE AREAS WILL RUIN YOUR PROJECT AS THE HEAT FROM THE IRON WILL MELT THE SPECIALTY THREADS.

8.  Lay flat or hang to dry.

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

Sincerely,

Angela :)