Expert: Angela - 6/19/2001

Question
Hi Angela,
I'm working on a piece (Stoney Creek "Our Family Tree") that includes Krenik blending filament and DMC gold metallic floss- there is also some ribbon embroidery (YLI). I'm giving it to my Mom after it's done- it's the largest thing I've done and I want it to last a long time after I'm finished.
I work on scroll bars and have been ironing before I work on a new area to avoid having to do so after I've stitched there.  I noticed that the Krenik filament says "Dry clean only" and I'd like your advice on how to clean it (or even if I should clean it?) after it's finished- I've heard negative things about dry cleaning needle work & even that there are certain DMC colors that should not be dry cleaned.  Do you have any suggestions?
I have done a good amount of work on the project with regular DMC floss, but only a handfull of stitches with the blending filament- so I can take them out and re-do them later if I need to.


Answer
Hi, Allison. :)

I would never recommend dry cleaning any project.  Instead, fill a tub with very luke warm water, and use a mild detergent to wash it with (Zero or similar would work well).  Next, place the item in the water and let it sit there for about 5 mins.  Go back to it and gently "swish" it around to remove any soiling.  If there is still soiling left, use a soft brush and gently brush the area that is soiled.  Next, rinse it under cold water and then place it in a towel flat (either way up is ok).  Roll the item in the towel and gently squeeze both until most of the water is soaked into the towel.  Don't wring.  Next, place it right side down on an ironing board, and using a very low setting on the iron, gently iron AROUND the filament and any other embellishment (you may want to pull the fabric while doing this to try to get rid of any wrinkles).  IF there is any filament used in combination with the floss, don't iron that area.  Finish straightening it out by gently stretching the fabric.  If you would like to keep the stitches from getting soiled, use Scotch Gard.

I hope this has helped you. :)  Good luck with your project. :)

Sincerely,
Angela