Here is a recipe I've used for crochet patterns that needed to be stiffened.
I once made a lacey bride doll pattern, using white crochet cotton, had it on display for several years and never found it to have yellowed in any way, nor did I find any bugs on it, but that could be due to the northern climate I live in, so I can't say how it would react in other areas. ------------------------------------- Starch finishes are a matter of personal preference. To vary the degree of stiffness, increase or reduce the amount of cornstarch. for best results, thoroughly soak damp items in the hot cornstarch solution, wring out and air dry, then when you are ready to iron, dampen items with water from a spray bottle, roll up and let sit one to two hours, then iron. Light finish; Mix 2 tsp. cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water, stir in 7 cups boiling water. Use for shirts. Medium finish; Mix 2 tbsp. cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water, stir in 7 cups boiling water. Use for work and play clothes, curtains. Stiff finish; Mix 3 tbsp. cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water, stir in 7 cups boiling water. Use for collars, cuffs, aprons, placemats. Extra stiff finish; Mix 1/2 cup cornstarch with 1 cup cold water, stir in 7 cups boiling water. Use for nurses' caps, crochet-work. Form and affix into final shape while still damp. To give fabrics new body, add 2/3 cups cornstarch directly to the washer, load detergent as agitation begins. To an automatic washer for a light starch finish, add 2/3 cup cornstarch in the last rinse. The are the recipes our grandmothers used in the days before spray starches came on the market. Karen Ontario, Canada - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
