Expert: Angela - 12/10/2006

Question
I crossed stitched a piece of cross stitch cloth and it has yellowed over time. It has pink and green flowers in the middle.  Is there any way to white the white material without fading the cross stitch?  Thank you

Answer
Hi, Jane :)

You can try cleaning it by doing the following:

1.  In a clean sink, fill it 1/4 of the way with tepid water (barely warm to the touch, but more cool).  Add a drop or 2 of dishwashing liquid.  Insert project, and allow to sit for about 15 minutes.

2.  After 15 minutes is up, gently swish the project in the water to remove any excess dirt.  Drain sink.

3.  Rinse project under cold water to remove any soap.

4.  Lay project onto a towel, and roll into towel, and gently squeeze to remove excess water.

5.  Unroll from towel, and lay flat onto ironing board.  With an iron preset to cotton (with steam if possible), iron on wrong side of project to remove any wrinkles.

6.  Lay flat or hang to dry.

Unfortunately, time WILL darken fabric and make it yellow.  Or smoking would also do that, too.  The above suggestion may not work for yours, but it doesn't hurt to try it and see.  DO NOT use bleach with any projects like this as it will fade them, and ruin them.

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

Sincerely,

Angela :)