Pretreating wool

scubagirl608 · Joined: 04 Jan 2008 Posts: 16 Location: Dallas

I understand that a sewing article that you can pretreat wool by holding a steam iron slightly above the fabric and steaming it heavily. Then, don't move it until it is cool.

I really don't want to pay a professional dry cleaner to pre-treat my 100% wool pieces, so I was wondering what has worked for you. I have some gabardine, crepe, and jersey.

I also need to pretreat some silk matka. Any ideas on that fabric? I have put other silks in water and mild soap with no problem at all, but I've never sewn with matka before.

Input from your experience would be very appreciated!

Barb · Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2008 12:24 pm Post subject:

There are a number of methods to use to pre-treat wool before sewing. Many wools that we receive through the industry are already sponged, but we suggest that you do your own pre-shrinking to insure the best results. The basic concept is to get moisture into the wool fibers and then let them dry naturally. The London Shrink method is relatively easy if you have floor or other surface space. Wet a large sheet and roll the wool fabric in the sheet. Once the wool is thoroughly damp, unroll and let it air dry completely--usually 24 hrs. or more. Another quick method I have used is to toss the wool in the dryer on air dry with several damp towels. Then air dry to complete dryness. Steaming the wool yourself is of course an option, but very time-consuming. You can also find a dry cleaner who understands the concept of pre-shrinking. Most are horrified at the idea unless they are familiar with tailors Laughing

As far as silk, it can be handwashed and hung dry. Beware that color stability is not the best in silk matka. Go gentle on the agent that you use for cleaning. Mild soap should be fine.

Hope this helps...any others out there want to share?

scubagirl608 · Joined: 04 Jan 2008 Posts: 16 Location: Dallas

Thank you so much, Barb! I did do the steam method on one piece and it took forever! The other methods you mentioned sound much better!!

THANKS!

Very Happy