Softening up aida?

[karenstitches]

I prefer working on aida to other, softer fabrics, but I wish it were less stiff. Any suggestions for softening up the fabric, making it less stiff, before beginning a project? Would putting it in the dryer for a few minutes with Bounce work? Thanks!

[MaggieM1750]

I've crinkled it up and then put it in warm soapy water to get the stiffness out before working on it. But I do find that it will soften up just by handling it while working on a project.

[karenstitches]

That's a good idea. I'll try that.

[Rose]

Yeah I was going to say give it a quick rinse.

[Mystonique]

We're funny creatures - you want it less stiff and I want my stiffness to last longer (I am talking about Aida).

[karenstitches]

Yeah, it's just a matter of personal preference. For me, cross-stitching is just as much about the tactile sensations as it is about color, so I think the softness. But I think stiff fabric is useful for certain projects.