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How to make the spray starch for quilts

How to make the spray starch for quilts

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Old 03-20-2014, 10:16 PM
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Default How to make the spray starch for quilts

I read somewhere the recipe for making the starch, but I don't remember where. Can anyone help me?
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Old 03-21-2014, 12:43 AM
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here's one---

1 Tbs. cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
3 3/4 cup tap water
2-3 drops of fragrant essential oil or lemon juice (optional)

Mix It Up:
Bring 3 3/4 cup tap water to a rolling boil.
While waiting for water to boil, mix the tablespoon of cornstarch into cold water. Stir constantly until cornstarch is completely dissolved.
Once water boils, slowly stir in cornstarch mixture.
If using essential oil or lemon juice, add to mixture and continue to stir for one minute.
Remove from heat and let cool.
After cooling add to a one quart spray bottle.


[h=2]Tips & Warnings[/h]

  • Shake the spray bottle until the mixture dissolves each time before ironing.

  • Spray only a thin layer of the starch across the fabric when ironing.

  • Alternatively, you can make a larger batch of starch and dip your clothing into the starch solution. Once dry, slightly moisten the garments and iron.


    Now that you've made your own homemade starch, there are some tips that will make your ironing look professional:
  • Always use steam in your iron when using homemade starch.
  • Let the starch absorb into fabric for at least 30 seconds before ironing.
  • Clean the bottom of your iron after each use.
  • White marks on clothes when ironing means you are probably ironing too soon after applying the spray starch. It's also possible that you may need to add a little more water to your homemade mixture

or, you can purchase concentrated starch in the laundry part of the grocery store & dilute it- use it at the concentration you require for your project.
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Old 03-21-2014, 04:06 AM
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I've never made my own. I prefer to use Staflo @ 50% starch & water. It's wonderful! And cheap too!
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Old 03-21-2014, 05:50 AM
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Does adding the lemon juice make the spray smell like lemons? I think I'd like that.
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Old 03-21-2014, 06:01 AM
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I use 1 cup vodka, 1 cup water and a bit of Frebreeze for scent - It is very similar to Best Press. For stiffer fabric I use Staflo equal part of it and water.
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Old 03-21-2014, 10:38 PM
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I tried the Vodka idea but. Couldn't find Vodka made with Potatoes. Are you allowed to tell me what brand of Vodka you used
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Old 03-22-2014, 01:15 AM
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LOL - I though the vodka was to drink while you ironed!
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Old 03-22-2014, 02:15 AM
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personally I would not add lemon, essential oils- or anything else to add fragrance- in my mind that is a recipe for disaster- oils leave stains (oily marks) lemon will yellow over time- I hate & will not use 'best press' mainly because it STINKS! makes my whole room reek for hours (yup-tried it once-never again) I know some people love the stuff---I've been using Niagra starch 40+ years- the slight odor that it has when sprayed is gone when item is pressed/dry- I do not understand why anyone would want to *perfume* their fabrics- or add oils/juices. *just me*
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Old 03-22-2014, 02:55 AM
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Originally Posted by kamaiarigby View Post
I tried the Vodka idea but. Couldn't find Vodka made with Potatoes. Are you allowed to tell me what brand of Vodka you used
It doesn't matter what the vodka is made from, it's not starch. Alcohol is made by yeast consuming the starches and sugars in plant matter. (grains, potatoes, berries) Once the starches are consumed by the yeast it's no longer starch.
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