How best to get rid of stains on stitching work?

[JulieK]

Hi all,

I have been going through complete and incomplete cross stitch projects - some of which have been in storage for up to 17 years.

I found have found a goood few which have yellowed and also have old stains on them. I was 10 when I started cross stitching and fear I was not careful with my work - although I thought I was at the time.

What is the best way to remove these stains without damaging the project? They are on Aida with good quality cottons (anchor, dmc or design works own dyed threads).

Finding heart breaking and would love to get them cleaned up as some of the design kits are now out of print.

Thanks in advance
JulieK

[Firehawke]

Oh no!!!!

Depending on what caused the stains, white vinegar might work...dab a little on, then dab with water, then dab with a clean towel and repeat over and over.

Good luck!!!

[JulieK]

Not sure - they are on the older one rather then my more current pieces. Some of them seem to be spot stains and others have more widespread yellowing.

I did contemplate popping them in a pillowcase and putting them on a cool wash in the machine after being treated with a stain remover but not sure if this would damage them

JulieK

[blackberrybear]

See if this helps
viewtopic.php?f=29&t=4855

[Moirae]

DMC has this on their FAQ:
Q: Is your thread color fast or do I need to set it before cross stitching with it?

A: All of our threads are color fast and fade resistant. However, some makers pre-wash embroidery floss before stitching. If you would like to, follow these instructions:

Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar with 8 fl.oz. of clear water
Soak entire skein in vinegar and clear water
If thread has any excess dye in it, the water will show discoloration (the water will turn the same color as thread)
After soaking, take the thread out of the water/vinegar mixture and make sure it is completely dry before using


So I doubt that a diluted vinegar soak will damage your stitching. If I have to remove yellowing from perspiration and other bodily stains from old clothes, I always try a soak diluted vinegar or oxiclean, but I think vinegar is safer/less harsh.

[Clarington]

This is a bit of an old thread now, but in case anyone is still looking I thought I'd mention that I've used Oxiclean on an old piece of stitching that was quite yellowed. It didn't damage the stitching at all, and although it didn't return the aida to a crisp white it certainly reduced the yellowing substantially.