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Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Sat Jan 06, 2018 8:22 pm
by sewNsew
Before starting a new project using Aida, is there any need to iron or wash the fabric before using it? I will be using Zweigart Aida Fabric for the first time that has fold creases from being in the packet.

Re: Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Sun Jan 07, 2018 1:54 pm
by Mabel Figworthy
I tend to try and get any creases out before stitching, simply because it's much easier to do then! Also, if the foldsturn out to be un-get-out-able (as sometimes happens) I can choose a new fabric before having done all the stitching. Just imagine having stitched a beautiful piece and then finding that you can't get the fabric flat!

Re: Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Sun Jan 07, 2018 3:58 pm
by Nicola Main
I usually buy a roll of Charles Craft aida from the website, Stitcher, which means I don't even have to bother with getting creases out! Aside from that I would iron it before starting as Mabel says.

Re: Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Sun Jan 07, 2018 4:16 pm
by richardandtracy
Not sure it'd be wise to wash prior to use. I think Aida is starched to make it stiffer and easier to work on. Washing it would negate that.

Regards

Richard.

Re: Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Sun Jan 07, 2018 8:23 pm
by wendywombat
I've dampened the Aida and the run over with a steam iron to get out creases. It works if the creases aren't to deep. As I use a frame and like my fabric drum tight then most of the creases disappeared with this treatment. Helps also if you turn the fabric over and you have the crease 'gutter' side up rather than the 'ridge' side up.

Re: Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 8:19 am
by nannyrainbow
As Wendy said, creases from Aida being in a kit packet or pre-packed packet do come out when fabric stretched tight on frame or hoop. i do that with ridge on reverse side of fabric surface where you stitch.

After gently washing completed picture I sometimes use a good quality spray starch, gently ironing picture on reverse.Brings it up really nice for framing.

Re: Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 10:50 am
by Serinde
You probably don't have to worry too much about washing Aida before use (tho getting out creases is probably a good idea) unless its grubby from storage.

Linen is probably good to wash, though, especially if it's inclined to shrink. Better before than after stitching!

Re: Prepping Aida Before Use?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 10:55 am
by sewNsew
Thank you all for your comments, most helpful.