by Katrina Renouf

The best way to clean your needlework is to keep it clean from the beginning; this doesn't always happen (as I very well know). I can give you some tips on how to make this more likely to happen, and also how to get out those inevitable stains.

One of the first things you can do to prevent stains is to set the colors in your fabric and floss. It isn't always necessary to wash your fabric first, but a good thing to do is to put it in a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts cold water. This ensures the colors won't run. I have never heard of this shrinking the fabric either, so don't worry about that, just make sure you use cold water. It's always a good idea to set the colors in regular cotton threads, especially the darker ones. You can use the same solution to set the colors in your threads, just soak them for about 15 minutes. After soaking, rinse in cold water for a few minutes or until the water runs clear. Dry them on a towel overnight, and they'll be ready to use in the morning.

Naturally the best way to prevent stains while stitching is to make sure that your hands are clean. You should also avoid using hand lotion since most lotions contain an oil product which ca result in greasy spots on your needlework. Hoops are also notorious for leaving dirty marks. I suggest using tissue paper with a small open area for the section being stitched. Also, removing the hoop when you are not stitching can cut down on marks dramatically. A third major way to stain your fabric is by having someone else spill something on it or otherwise stain it while you're not around. People with children know how easily this can happen. The best solution is to store your projects in plastic zipper bags. They now make them with small holes in them to allow them to breath. Make sure you roll your fabric instead of folding it. The creases caused by folding tend to collect dirt, and are difficult to get out even when ironed.

Now, to discuss the inevitable, no matter what we do to prevent them stains do happen. Make sure you deal with the stain as soon as it happens, letting it sit until the piece is done will make it more difficult to get the stain out. One tip I have heard is to always use a pure soap, like Ivory, and not detergent or WoolLite, since they can have dyes or bleach in them. I have divided up the following paragraphs into the most common stains, and ways I have heard to get them out.

Blood: The best way to remove your blood is your saliva. It may take a lot to dissolve it, so it might not be the best thing to do while waiting in the doctor's office. You'll want to saturate the stain with saliva and keep adding more until the blood is gone. When it's gone, wash the piece, but in cold water only. The saliva trick only works with your blood though, not anyone else's. In this case, the best thing to do is to use hydrogen peroxide. Dab it carefully on the blood drop and be ready to rinse. Remember to test it first, especially on colored fabrics. Another answer is to use mix a solution of 85% table salt and water, then rinse.

Pencil Marks: Use a solution of 3 parts rubbing alcohol, one part water, and 1.2 tsp. of dish wasing detergent.

Rust: Mix 1 tsp. of oxalic acid (available at most pharmacies) in one cup hot water and dab the solution on the stain. Wash and rinse well.

Food Stains: Be careful with anything with bleach in it if you're using 100% linen, very hot water is ok though.

Red Wine: Soak up what you can with a paper napkin and then dump a pile of table salt onto the stain. Rub it around into the stain, and wash the cloth as soon as possible.

When you're project is completed it is important to wash it again before framing, or whatever you plan to do with it. I don't recommend washing your piece in the washing machine, even on the gentle cycle. The way I have heard suggested the most is to use a product called Orvus. Just put a little bit in with cold water and let it soak for a bit. Then rinse it until all soap is gone. If the colors happen to run, you should use water as close to the boiling point as possible. This is the temperature they cure the colors at, so it makes sense to remove the dye in the same way. It also prevents the dye from resettling

Don't wring the fabric as it can distort the threads and fabric weave. Try rolling it in a towel to absorb the excess water as it doesn't leave as many wrinkles.

About the Author:
Katrina Renouf is the founder and owner of the cross stitch website www.matkailuxstitch.com.