how to launder red work embroidery

by Glenda
(Heber Springs, AR, USA)

How do I safely launder red work embroidery? I do not know if the red embroidery, which is on white pillow shams, has ever been "set". There are no stains on the white cotton fabric, but they are slightly yellowed. These are about 10 years old and have never been laundered.

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by: Carol

Oh, those pillow shams sound like they hold a story. Ten years tucked away, patiently waiting to be brought back to life.

It's understandable to be a little hesitant about washing them, especially with that beautiful red embroidery. You're right to be cautious, because red thread, especially if it hasn't been "set," can sometimes bleed and turn your pristine white into a blush pink.

But don't worry, we can definitely tackle this together. Here's what I suggest, drawing from my own experiences with vintage linens:

Step 1: The Gentle Test

Start by doing a little test. Pick a discreet spot on one of the shams, maybe a hidden seam allowance. Dampen a white cloth and gently rub it against the embroidery. If any red comes off onto the cloth, you'll know the dye hasn't been fully set.

Step 2: The Soak

If the test shows some bleeding, don't despair! Give those shams a gentle soak in a basin of cool water with a mild detergent specifically designed for delicates. Let them soak for about 30 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt and grime without agitating the embroidery too much.

Step 3: The Hand Wash

After the soak, gently hand wash the shams in the same cool water with the delicate detergent. Use your hands to swirl them around, being careful not to rub or scrub the embroidery.

Step 4: The Rinse and Repeat

Rinse the shams thoroughly in cool water until the water runs clear. You might need to rinse a few times to get rid of all the soap.

Step 5: The Air Dry

Now, the most important part: air drying. Lay the shams flat on a clean towel, away from direct sunlight. This will prevent any further fading or colour bleeding.

A Few Extra Tips

Vinegar Power: Adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse water can help set the dye and brighten the whites.
Color Catcher Sheets: If you're still worried about bleeding, you can use color catcher sheets in the wash. They're like little sponges that absorb loose dye.
Patience: Remember, these shams have been patiently waiting for a decade. Be patient with them as you wash them, and they'll reward you with their beauty.

I hope these tips help you bring those beautiful red work pillow shams back to life! Remember, even if they don't look brand new, they'll still hold that special charm of a well-loved heirloom. And who knows, maybe the slight yellowing adds to their story, a whisper of time passed?

If all else fails, maybe you can use the unmarked cloth or embroidered sections in a piece of Slow Stitching?

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