Expert: Angela - 1/4/2007

Question
Hi,
I bought a kit that's an Exemplarary Williamsburg Mary Victor Sampler. This is my first attempt at a sampler, and I'm excited about starting it. But the linen fabric included in this kit is soooo stiff!! I'm wondering if I should wash it first, and then what I would use to wash it.

I also have another project that I would like to ask about. This a real "orphan" cross-stitched rug. It is probably 8x10. It is in beautiful shape colorwise. But some foolish person put two fern planters on it or something and then watered them and watered them. The result is two 12 inch square areas that seem to have mildewed, and unfortunately there is some dry rot. I'm considering un-cross-stitching these areas (Aaack! Will the wools I use even match?) and then sewing fabric patches on that I would then cross-stitch. Do you think I'm insane? I think this may have been a very expensive rug at one time. I mean, there are probably at least 50-100 stitches to the inch, and it's large. It was probably hundreds of dollars. I paid $80. The garage sale picker who found it probably paid $10! What is your opinion? I could send a photo. Thanks so much for your time and thoughts on my two cross-stitch questions.  

Answer
Hi, Melissa ;)

You CAN wash the fabric first in the kit before stitching on it.  Also, it will soften up as you stitch on it, too.  I've stitched on plenty of Aida cloths that were stiff, and they've loosen up as I've stitched on them.  It's just a matter of preference. :)  IF you decide to wash it, be sure to wash it in cold water so that the color doesn't run (warm if it's a white fabric), and then you can either air dry it, or dry it in the dryer.

As far as the orphan project is concerned, it's permanently ruined beyond repair, especially if there's dry rot and mildew on it.  Unfortunately, you won't be able to fix it.

Sincerely,

Angela