Keeping Stitching Clean
Keeping your cross-stitch fabric clean throughout the stitching process and after completion is important for maintaining the quality and appearance of your work. Always wash and dry your hands before handling your fabric to avoid transferring oils, lotions or dirt. When not stitching, cover your project with a clean cloth or place it in a project bag to protect it from dust and dirt. Don’t eat or drink while stitching to prevent accidental spills or stains. If you have pets, keep them away from your stitching area to prevent fur, dander or dirt from settling on the fabric.
After completing the stitching, the piece can be lightly hand-washed in cool to lukewarm water (depending on colorfastness) with a mild detergent or specialty fabric cleaner. Gently swish the fabric in the water; avoid scrubbing. Most pieces will not need washing; however, very light fabrics may develop a discoloration from being held, which should come out with the process listed above. After hand-washing, rinse in cool water until all soap is removed. Lay the fabric flat on a clean towel and gently press out excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric. Allow the fabric to air dry completely, lying flat to prevent wrinkles. If needed, lay stitching facing down on a clean white towel and iron, straightening the fabric weave as you press.
If you notice a small spot or stain, you can gently blot it with a damp cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can push the stain deeper into the fabric. No matter what the stain or spot, the cardinal rule for getting it out is promptness. Before washing or attempting any spot removal, check the fiber content of the needlework to determine which cleaning procedure can be used safely, and check the dyes to see if they are colorfast. Fibers and fabrics that have been hand-dyed have the potential to bleed. If you don't have the manufacturer's label with this information, use a small swatch of thread or fabric to test the cleaning procedure.
Stain Removal Suggestions
Please note that the stain removal suggestions provided should be used with caution. Proceed at your own risk, as results may vary depending on the fabric and stain type. Test in an inconspicuous area first, and use your best judgment when applying these methods.
Blood: Soak in cold water, wash with warm soapy water, then rinse.
Candy: Soak in cold water, apply laundry spot remover, then rinse.
Coffee/Tea: Soak in warm soapy water, then pour boiling water over the stain.
Dust, Lint, Pet Hair or Odors: Tumble on low in the dryer with a fabric-softener sheet.
Grass: Alternate applications of ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, then rinse with cold water.
Grease: Wash with warm soapy water, rinse, then apply alcohol.
Lipstick: Use petroleum jelly, wash with warm soapy water, then rinse.
Wax: Apply ice, scrape off the wax, press between white paper towels with the wax side down using low heat, then wash with warm water and rinse. For colored wax, sponge with alcohol if necessary.