Do you want to make your crocheted items look polished and professional? Searching is a great way to add dimension and structure, as well as enhance the beauty of the fabric created by your skillful handiwork.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to starch crochet items so they can not only last longer and keep their shape but also become real conversation pieces that anyone would be proud to wear or display in their home. Whether you’re searching for practicality or aesthetics, this guide will give you all the information you need in order to make sure your starched project turns out just right!
What Is the Best Way to Stiffen Crochet?
The best way to stiffen crochet is to use a combination of starch and fabric-safe glue. Start by mixing equal parts of liquid starch and fabric-safe glue in a bowl. Be sure to mix thoroughly until the solution is evenly distributed. Once you have your mixture ready, dip your crochet item into the solution, taking care not to submerge it completely. Once the piece is saturated with the solution, remove it from the bowl and place it on a flat surface.
Using your hands or a brush, work the starch and glue it into the fabric until you have achieved an even coverage. Allow your crochet item to dry for at least 24 hours before handling. If desired, you can apply a second coat of the mixture to make your finished piece even stiffer. Once dry, your crochet item should be nice and stiff!
It is important to remember that when working with starch or any other fabric stiffener, it’s best to test a small swatch first before attempting the entire project. This will give you an opportunity to make sure the solution will not damage or discolor your item before applying it to the whole piece.
Additionally, always be sure to use fabric-safe glue, as some glues may contain chemicals that can damage certain fabrics. Finally, make sure you allow your crochet item plenty of time to dry for the best results.
10 Methods on How to Starch Crochet Items
1. Ironing
One of the most common methods for starching crochet items is ironing. To do this, simply lay your item flat on an ironing board and cover it with a pressing cloth. Set your iron to the appropriate heat setting for the yarn you used (usually between “wool” and “cotton”) and press down firmly.
Be sure to move the iron around so that you don’t accidentally scorch your work. Once you’ve finished ironing each side, let it cool before moving onto the next step. Although this method is effective, it can be time-consuming and tedious.
2. Steam Blocking
Steam blocking is another popular method for starching crochet items. To do this, fill a bowl with steaming hot water and hold your item over the bowl so that the steam can reach it. You can also use a handheld steamer if you have one. Once the item is saturated with steam, lay it flat on an ironing board and press down with a warm iron.
This method of searching allows you to avoid getting your crochet item wet, which could cause it to shrink or otherwise become misshapen. You should be careful when using this method, however, as the steam can burn if you get too close to it. Additionally, make sure your item is completely dry before storing or wearing it.
3. Stiffening Spray
If you don’t want to go through the hassle of ironing or steam-blocking your work, you can always use a stiffening spray. These sprays are typically made from a mixture of water and starch, and they can be found at most craft stores. Simply spray your item evenly with the stiffening spray and allow it to dry completely before using or wearing it.
This option is great for small projects like appliques and motifs, as it allows you to get the stiffness without handling a hot iron. However, it’s important to note that while stiffening sprays work well for small items, they may not be suitable for larger pieces like garments or blankets.
4. Boiling Water
Boiling water is another effective method for starching crochet items. Simply fill a pot with boiling water and submerge your item in the water for a few seconds. Remove the item from the water and press it flat between two towels to remove any excess moisture. Once it’s dry, you can then proceed to iron or steam-blocking it as desired.
This method is particularly effective with cotton yarn items since the boiling water helps to set the shape of the item. However, it’s important to note that boiling water can also cause colors to bleed, so it’s best to test a small section of your item before submerging the entire thing.
5. Hairspray
Hairspray is an unlikely but effective method for starching crochet items. Simply spray your item evenly with hairspray and allow it to dry completely before using or wearing it. You may need to apply multiple coats in order to get the desired effect. Be sure to use a light, non-sticky hairspray that won’t weigh down your item or leave it feeling sticky.
The best part about using hairspray to starch your crochet item is that it’s easy and inexpensive! Plus, the stiffening effect will last until you wash or wear it, so you don’t have to keep reapplying it.
6. Fabric Starch
Fabric starch is another option for those looking for an easy way to starch their crochet work. This product can be found at most craft stores, and it typically comes in either aerosol form or as a powder that must be mixed with water. To use fabric starch, simply follow the instructions on the package and apply it to your work as desired.
Once it’s dry, you can then proceed to iron or steam-blocking it as desired.
7. Glue Starch
Glue starch is a combination of fabric glue and starch that can be used to stiffen crochet items. To use this method, mix equal parts of the glue and starch together in a bowl. Submerge your item in the mixture and allow it to sit for several minutes until it is saturated completely. Remove the item from the bowl and place it on a flat surface.
Using your hands or a brush, work the starch and glue it into the fabric until you have achieved an even coverage. Allow your crochet item to dry for at least 24 hours before handling. If desired, you can apply a second coat of the mixture to make your finished piece even stiffer.
8. Gelatin Starch
Gelatin starch is a combination of gelatin powder and water that can be used to stiffen crochet items. To use this method, mix together one part of gelatin powder with two parts of boiling water in a bowl. Submerge your item in the mixture and allow it to sit for several minutes until it is saturated completely.
Remove the item from the bowl and place it on a flat surface. Using your hands or a brush, work the starch and glue it into the fabric until you have achieved an even coverage. Allow your crochet item to dry for at least 24 hours before handling. If desired, you can apply a second coat of the mixture to make your finished piece even stiffer.
9. Cornstarch Paste
Cornstarch paste is another option for starching crochet items. To use this method, mix together one part of cornstarch with two parts of boiling water in a bowl until it forms a thick paste-like consistency. Submerge your item in the mixture and allow it to sit for several minutes until it is saturated completely.
Remove the item from the bowl and place it on a flat surface. Using your hands or a brush, work the starch and glue it into the fabric until you have achieved an even coverage. Allow your crochet item to dry for at least 24 hours before handling. If desired, you can apply a second coat of the mixture to make your finished piece even stiffer.
10. Final Steps
Once you’ve chosen your desired method of starching your crochet items, the final step is to set the starch. This can be done by either ironing or steaming the item. When ironing, make sure that you are using a low heat setting and never use steam when ironing synthetic fibers. Steam blocking is another option for setting the starch in your crochet work.
To steam block, simply hold your item over a pot of boiling water and allow the steam to penetrate the fabric. Once the item is damp, lay it flat on a surface and smooth it into place. Allow it to dry completely before using or wearing it.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to starch crochet items, you’re ready to give them that finishing touch. Experiment with different types of spray starch until you find the one you like best. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be searching for your crochet items like a pro in no time!
You Can Check It Out to Make a Crochet Pattern Smaller
