1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

Washing Your Precious Finished Pieces

You have completed your handiwork and are looking forward to having it framed or used in another project. You have spent hours stitching away, unpicking, re-sewing and putting your heart and soul into your work. The end result is pleasing to the eye and you are very proud to have finally finished your project, especially as it may have taken you a while to do. Now, you need to wash it to bring back the original colour of the fabric, because over time, the oils from your hands and the dirt and grime of life have conspired to make your work seem messy.

Having been there myself, I know that it is a worrying prospect plunging your precious work into soap and water. You are wanting to have the best possible outcome and not ruin the hard work already put in. Do you throw it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, or do you take the time to lovingly wash it by hand, probably the same way you stitched your project to begin with.

From my own experiences, and we are talking about ten plus years here, hand washing provides the most gentle results. You are in control of how your work is thrown about and scrubbed. You can work easily on the more grime affected areas and gently massage them back to the original colours.

Hand washing means you have to get your hands wet, but the results are far more superior and rewarding than just throwing that precious, completed project in the washing machine and hoping for the best. The worry is alleviated and your work is still safe and recognisable. Now you just have to worry about what the detergent you have chosen is going to do to the colours or the quality of your work.

In my laundry cupboard, I have a bottle of gentle wool wash, bought specifically with my completed stitchery projects in mind. Mine is eucalyptus based, and very effective and gentle on my work, not to mention, is a very nice aroma that soothes the mind and clears the sinuses. Kidding! It really is not that strong and does a great job of getting the grime out and bringing the lustre and shine back to your work.

Temperature for washing is important too. I like to wash my work in warm, not hot, water, as it helps to penetrate the fibres better and is recommended on the bottle any way. Having the water too cold means that the fibres are less accepting of the washing products, making the work even more strenuous for you. Too hot, and your hands are not going to be able to get close to your work. Burns are not a very attractive fashion

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Tips for laundering finished stitchery projects?
We want to hear your view. Write now!