Washing Finished Cross Stitch

by Lyn
(Philippines)

I usually stitch my projects in Aida Cloth with DMC threads. Is it ok to have it Dry Cleaned instead of washing it? I've noticed that the color quality decreases and fades a little if I wash it with water and even a good soap.

Thanks a Lot!

Carol answers...

I have to admit that I have never dry cleaned my finished cross stitch projects, Lyn. I wrote about my method of washing cross stitch here on the site.

With the modern methods of producing colored threads, it is possible that some of the darker colors (especially reds) could run. You can test a separate piece of thread first by wetting it and placing it on a damp tissue. If the color runs into the tissue then it is likely to run when the project itself is washed.

I am not really sure how today's dyes would react to dry cleaning. Perhaps someone else reading this page has experience of this and will let us know?

Regards,

Carol