Every completed project should be laundered before framing or finishing regardless of the care taken during stitching. Natural oils from your hands enter the fabric during stitching and will eventually appear as stains. Any fabric that isn't clean is also subject to discoloration within a few years. First, let's cover some basic care instructions that will reduce the possibility of staining. Wash your hands frequently and avoid using lotions or perfumes. Remove cross-stitching from the hoop when not stitching. Store your project in a bag or sewing basket between stitching sessions. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while working on your project
Washing instructions:
* Each cross-stitch piece should be washed separately by hand. NEVER wash cross-stitched pieces with other laundry or with other completed projects.
* Place your needlework in cold or lukewarm water with a mild dishwashing liquid or Ivory Flakes™. Swish it gently by hand and allow it to soak for 15 minutes. Any stain that requires extra effort may be brushed with a soft toothbrush. DO NOT scrub.
* Rinse cross-stitch in cool water several times making sure the final rinse water is free of suds and perfectly clear.
* Place the piece between two clean white towels or between the folds of one large one. NEVER allow the piece to touch upon itself or leave damp cross-stitch folded.
* Roll the towel(s) and squeeze to absorb most of the water. NEVER wring your completed project.
* If there are fold lines or creases in your cross stitch, check to make sure they are thoroughly clean. Avoid the application of heat because it will set most stains making them permanent.
* Place the damp/dry piece face down on a clean towel. Iron on the back side until totally dry using a pressing motion with medium heat. The use of a pressing cloth such as light-weight muslin will protect metallic and synthetic fibers.
* To remove creases it may be necessary to use the steam setting on your iron. Some fabrics such as linen may require using the high temperature. Your project will not be damaged as long as you use a pressing cloth.
* Any crease that doesn't respond to ironing may be removed by blocking.
* Avoid the use of harsh detergents containing phosphates that may not be totally water soluble. Laundry products designed for hand washing garments are not recommended for needlework. Many of them may not be biodegradable making them inappropriate for an heirloom you wish to preserve.
WARNING: Chlorine bleach diluted with water seems to have little effect on DMC™ floss but will definitely remove the color from Aida. Obvious stains should be treated with white vinegar or lemon juice prior to washing.
Scotchgard™ and products of this type are not recommended for use on cross-stitch as the ingredients may cause a chemical reaction with the dyes in the floss. It is preferable to frame your competed project under glass to prevent soiling. When using another finishing technique simply be sure to use only washable materials; then if the piece becomes soiled it can easily be cleaned using the same washing process.
Although most Aida and even weave fabrics are made of cotton or linen, new fabrics are continually appearing on the market. In the event that one of your projects is stitched on silk or wool requiring dry cleaning, be sure to advise your local dry cleaner to exercise care with any dry cleaning chemicals. Those containing benzene and other chemicals may react with the dyes in the floss resulting in major damage to your needlework.
You have created a thing of beauty with nothing more than a small piece of fabric, some floss, and a needle. With your own hands you have stitched a priceless heirloom. Care for it and it will be enjoyed for generations.
