Easy DIY Non-Starch Spray
Some quilters like using starch to stiffen their fabrics – I am not one of those. Typically, I only use spray starch for some of the applique fabrics I place in my art quilts, but even then, not that often. This is because the spray starches often make the fabric too stiff and sometimes add a visible residue.
For some time, I’ve used filtered water from a spray bottle to remove fabric wrinkles. More recently, I started using a starch-free fabric stiffener made with cheap vodka and water, and I love it!
Use the cheapest vodka you can find – it works great and it’s cost effective. Mix one part vodka with one part filtered water, put it in a spray bottle, and you’re ready to go!
I spray the mixture on lightly – just get the fabric a bit damp. I spray fabrics before ironing them and it gives them just the right amount of stiffness for piecing, etc. If the fabrics are musty from storage, the vodka helps remove the odor. I spray art quilts to help remove wrinkles and freshen them up; once sprayed, I just lay them flat to dry. I also use the mixture on coasters and placemats: after spraying, I run them through the dryer on no heat – it helps remove wrinkles and it freshens them up too!
Please use the Comments Section below to let me know about your experiences with using sprays to remove wrinkles in and stiffen your fabrics.
