JudyFN wrote:
Judy, I figure how large a "chunky cut" I need to make and starch that size fabric before I cut smaller pieces. Here is a explanation that I posted on my Webshots album for part of the Stars for a New Day BOM: http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2743579240102889971mnjMvk

Oh Pam -- that's terrible and funny at the same time. I think we may be long lost sisters.

Margo, I have 2 questions related to starch?

1) Did you cut your background fabric into a smaller piece before starching? I'm still have mine as one piece because I've had horrid luck cutting fabric wrong.
2) Where is the link to your demo of spray starching? I remember seeing it in the past.

Thanks, Judy

pam7040 wrote:
Pam, that sounds like something I would do!!

I hadn't used starch since my mum had used it when I was a child. Well about 3 years ago I decided to make a convergence quilt. Having heard and read about the benefits 0f starching your fabric, I bought a spray. Having cut my fabrics in half I pressed and starched the fabric I intended to use. I then set it aside to dry. Later when I came to use it I was surprised that the starch had worn off so quickly as the fabric was quite limp. I cut my fabrics and started piecing the quilt. Much later, possibly days, I was tidying up and found the starched fabrics all still nice and stiff. I had used the unstarched fabric.

JudyFN wrote: I found some JJ Gold Glide needles in my applique bag. Size 10 and 11 applique and sharp. Thanks again, Judy.

I ran out of starch and have been putting off getting more for about a week now, thinking I would make my own. Last night I just went out and bought some, thinking I would still try making it. Guess what. I've decided not to try making my own spray starch. Like you said, Margo, it's too much like cooking, lol. I've went out and got a bottle of Sta-Flow and a can of spray. Last night I used the spray:) I am lazy at heart, I guess.

I've never had a problem with bugs from using spray starch. Of course, I starch just before I cut and my quilts get washed after they're done.

linny t

Eileen -- look to see if you have John James Gold 'n Glide. I've also used the new Colonial needles with a coating as well but John James are my favorites. If you like Milliners -- they have this style of needle as milliners, applique (sharps), and betweens. Judy

JudyFN wrote:
Thanks, Judy! I've been using size 11 milliners. I was told that a longer needle would make a better stitch. I have packs and packs of applique needles-I'll get them out.

MAinMO wrote:
I like your methods!

Linnyt wrote:
Linny, scroll up on this topic for a couple of links to Diane Gaudynski's web site for the cornstarch recipe. She uses it all the time.

I've never done that because it has a short shelf life due to the fact that it has no preservatives. I prefer Sta-Flo because I don't want to have to worry about it going bad, not to mention the fact that mixing it up sounds too much like cooking to me!

Some people report trouble with bugs because of starch. I have been using it for years, and have never had a problem. It may be that I don't store starched fabric (or UFOs) or it may be the climate here. If you know you are susceptible to bugs, just don't starch more fabric than you expect to use and be sure that you don't take a long time to finish a project!

If I want my fabric really stiff for machine applique I spray it lightly several times. More if the fabric is softer to begin with, Batik s need less starch. I also like the Stay Flo. I use a lot of it making my quilts and Art Quilts. I prewash all my fabrics for clothing and quilting. I hand dye also so am used to testing my fabrics before I spend time on them. I do not use Mary Ellen's Best Press till I block my art quilts. Then I only use the unscented. I also get headaches from scents. I usually put a sheet down on the rug. pin my quilted piece to it then use a steamer to block the wall hanging. When it is dry I spray the piece with Best Press and smooth it and let that dry. Then they hang straight. I have been using starch on my fabrics since I learned to Iron hankerchiefs and shirts for my father as a child. Remember, washing on Monday, ironing on Tuesday. My mother kept the ironing rolled up in the freeser so it would stay damp and wrinkle less. My Art Quilt students know that freezer paper and a can or spray bottle of starch is a good friend.

Has anyone tried making their own spray starch from corn starch? I've seen it on the web in several places and was thinking of trying it.
linny t

Eileen,

Have you tried a different needle? -- I like the John James Gold 'n Glide needles. I use the applique needle (same size as a sharp) in a 10 or 11 (depending on my applique thread) and I haven't had trouble hand sewing through a turned starch edge. Judy