Expert: Angela - 6/3/2004

Question
I woman I know has been dry cleaning her finished projects for years and claims they come out excellent and that she never had any problems with this method and recommended that I use the same dry cleaner she does.  She cross stitches constantly and made 4 large Xmas stockings last year and that is the project I am finishing up and thinking of dry cleaning.  It is my first large counted cross stitch and it is pretty dirty as I have been working on it for almost a year.  The fabric is 14 aida white, Checking His List, by Dimensions.  What do you think?

Answer
Hello, Patty :)

I'm not familiar with dry cleaning any handstitched project as I normally clean them myself by using a mild dishwashing liquid in cool water.  I allow them to soak for about 5 minutes, and if there's any soiling, I will use a brand new soft bristled toothbrush and gently clean the soiled areas.  Next, I would rinse with cool water, lay flat onto a towel and roll into the towel, gently squeezing the water out of the project.  Then I would lay flat to dry.  If it requires any ironing, I would preset the iron on almost medium, and then iron on the wrong side.  If there's any blending filament, beadwork or any other specialty threads, do not iron those areas.  Instead, just gently tug until the wrinkles are out.  You may need to spritz with water to do so.

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

Sincerely,
Angela :)