Firming up floppy fabrics
 

I just read an article from Threads magazine on an alternative to starching fabrics to make them easier to handle. It advises using gelatin, the old fashioned kind we used to use to try to grow fantastic fingernails (never worked for me!). Dissolve 1 teaspoon of gelatin in 16 ounces of water for 30 minutes. Then boil a quart of water and mix the gelatin mixture into it. Soak your floppy fabric in it, then remove it from the solution and roll the fabric piece in a towel, then allow to dry flat. The gelatin will wash right out in the laundry later.

Thanks for the information! I'll give it a try. So far making my own starch from corn starch hasn't been successful and using the spray cans are out of the question, can't breathe after using them.

Krsy, have you tried Sta-Flo liquid laundry starch? You mix it with water to get the strength that you want.

My Mother made starch from FLOUR and water and then boiled it until it thickened. You can thin it down anytime after it has boiled and thickened.

I use Sta-Flo... works great for me. Even the Bounce ironing spray works well. It is like Best Press only more affordable.

I use Sta-Flo starch when pressing large areas and Best Press for pressing seams. If I want something stiffer I mix 1/2 c Sta-Flo with 1/2 c water and put in spray bottle. Spritz the fabric, wait a few minutes for mixture to soak in and press.

Got to remember this gelatin idea, cool!!:thumbup:

Jan in VA

Yes, I have tried the liquid starch thank you for asking. The liquid starch is manufactured with a fragrance, even though it's a small amount it triggers an asthma attack. My pulmonologist recommended that I make my own to control the ingredients, not just starch but also what we use to clean with.

I was going to ask if you'd tried the non-aerosol kind of starch, but I guess that wouldn't work for you either... bummer.

Found this method for making boiled starch:
http://www.ehow.com/how_4917067_home...ed-starch.html

You could also try Argo Gloss Laundry Starch. It contains only corn starch:
http://www.argostarch.com/faq.html
and can be purchased from Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Special-Pack-G...dp/B004Q74D10/

Starch can also be made from potatoes. Here is a method for making it from a real potato:
http://www.wisegeek.com/how-can-i-make-starch.htm
or you can purchase potato starch in health food stores:
http://www.amazon.com/Bobs-Red-Mill-...dp/B0013JOKBC/