Expert: Angela - 8/30/2007

Question
Hi,  I'm thinking about stitching on linen and I read some of your past answers.  Why is it that you have to start at a hole where the vertical thread lies over the horizontal one?  I have heard of the two thread and one thread methods.  When would you use the one thread?  Wouldn't your stitches be tiny if you did that?  I'm quite experienced with stitching on Aida, but I'm now thinking of having my finished projects framed.  They're not really dirty, as I am very careful about keeping them away from food, etc, so they should only maybe have a little bit of my natural skin oils on them.  They don't appear discoloured, so should I be cleaning them prior to framing?  If so, how should I go about cleaning them?

Thank you and sorry for having so many questions...  You're awesome for helping me :)

Marissa

Answer
Hello, Marissa :)

You can start at any hole on the linen.  You don't have to start where the vertical threads lay over the horizontal ones.

You would use over 1 thread method when you want to make your project very small so that it'll fit into a tiny frame or something.

I would highly recommend that you clean your projects prior to framing them.  To do so, follow these steps:

1.  In a CLEAN sink, run some cool (not quite barely warm) water with a small amount of mild detergent (liquid dishsoap works fine).  Place project into water.  Allow to soak for about 15 minutes.

2.  After 15 minutes, swish gently in the water to remove any soiling.  If needed, use a CLEAN, BRAND NEW tooth brush to gently scrub off any excess, stubborn soiling.

3.  Rinse under cool water.  Roll into a clean towel, and gently squeeze out any excess water.

4.  Lay flat onto an ironing board, and with an iron preset to 3 (cotton), with steam, iron on wrong side.  Lay flat or hang to dry.

I hope that the above ideas help.  Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,

Angela :)