How does one clean aida cloth?

Question

I've had this cross stitch pattern for 10 years that i've wanted to make for my mother for Christmas. I actually started working on it about four years ago. I've taken it out again and I actually want to finally finish it and give it to her this Christmas. However, there are dirt spots on it because it's been stored. How can I clean it without messing up the stitches I've already made?

Answer 1

In order to clean your project, you'll need to have a clean sink partly filled with tepid water (barely warm to the touch, but more to the cool side so that the colors don't run).

Next, put in some very mild liquid dishwashing detergent or mild laundry soap, and place your project into the water. Gently swish it around to create suds, and allow the project to soak for about 5 minutes. If there is some heavy soiling, you'll need to take a clean, brand new toothbrush and gently scrub the soiled areas until they're clean.

Once the project is clean, rinse under cold water, and lay on a clean towel. Roll the project into the towel, and gently squeeze the excess water out of it. Unroll it, and then place it on an ironing board. Using an iron preset to cotton with steam, iron on wrong side of project.

PLEASE NOTE: DO NOT IRON if the project has braid, blending filament, other specialy threads or beads as ironing may damage these things. Instead, gently pull the fabric until the wrinkles disappear. You will need to continue to spritz water on them to help you.

Once the project is ironed, lay flat or hang to dry.

I hope this helps you. Good luck!