Question Re: Cleaning a Cross-Stitch

[AmyBoz]

Okay ladies, once again, I need some help. When dd was born, one of my best friend did an alphabet cross-stitch for her. Unfortunately, we moved right after having dd and the cross-stitch got put away somewhere and I just unearthed it again. I want to have it framed as we are turning her room into a big girl room as we move in the big girl stuff and move the baby stuff into the nursery for the new baby. However, in its storage space, the cross-stitch got dirty. It's not filthy, but it needs to be cleaned before it gets framed. I know that I can't just wash it in the washer, but I am not sure how to get the dirt off. Help!

[Missy]

I would try hand washing it in woolite (or similar) in cool water. Roll between towels to remove water. Remove and lay flat till dry. Iron between towels if needed.

I am not an authority, but that;s how I wash mine.

[SewCrafty]

Looking after your collection of old and new cross stitch pieces

Embroidered items such as tablemats and napkins which are intended to be used rather than displayed will need to be laundered at regular intervals to keep them in tiptop condition. If you are worried that the threads used in a piece may not be colourfast, then have it dry-cleaned by a specialist firm instead of cleaning it yourself. The best way to clean cross stitch is to wash the item carefully by hand in hand-hot water with a mild, detergent-free cleaning agent. Most specialist fabric shampoos are ideal, but check that the one you choose does not contain optical brighteners, which will cause thread and fabric colours to fade. Rinse the piece thoroughly in several changes of water then roll in a towel and press gently to remove surplus water. Gently ease into shape and dry out of direct sunlight.

http://www.tompudding.co.uk/caring%2...s%20stitch.htm

I'm with Melissa on this one, I would use cold water (to stop any discoloring/bleeding of fabric and threads) and Woolite sounds good too.