needlepoint canvas creases
 

I was given a vintage needlepoint kit which I want to make. Unfortunately the canvas has severe creases from long storage. I want to work it on a scroll frame, but do not know how to remove the creases. Any suggestions?

maybe steam it? While it is somewhat pliable try to square it up.

Have you already put it on the scroll? I would think you could put it on the scroll then use steam iron with a pressing cloth to get it to relax. Not sure what type of canvas you have - and you need to be careful not to remove the color on it - thus use steam and a pressing cloth. Try a corner so you don't melt the canvas.

I would put it on the frame and leave it sit that way for a bit. I've stitched with the creases in needlepoint canvas with no issues. The canvas will relax after working it for a bit. I would not steam at this point as it may distort the canvas. I would wait until the project is finished. After my needlepoint projects, I hand wash my finished canvas with dish detergent and roll in a towel to get excess water from the piece. Let air dry. I have a frame to square my work. After the piece is dry I do use steam to get it back to square on the frame. Let it dry again and then it is ready for framing/sewing.

Could you dampen the crease a bit while it's on the frame?

This is what I was going to suggest. Give it a spritz or two of water and let it dry.

Is it a pre-printed canvas? If not, you could always buy a new canvas.

Is the design pre-stamped? Then don't use water or steam. It will remove the design!

The crease should fall out as it is worked. If it doesn't then it will definitely fall out as it is blocked at the end.

Thank each of you for taking the time to respond to my question. I have read your great suggestions and have decided to use a damp press cloth on the folds that do not contain any of the design so as to not erase it. Then I will put it in the scroll frame and begin working it with the idea that the scrolling will help eliminate folds. If not, by the end, then dampen it and roll in a towel. It is a fairly large piece, at least for me, measuring 22 x 22 inches so I don't want to do all the work and have it not lay flat. It is by Sunset Designs and is an 1860 doll house.

After pressing, use it. The needle work will take care of the rest.