I guess the oils would mark the fabric? I am a bit wary of using vodka, especially so close to the iron!!

For several years i've bought a bottled liquid starch, (here in the US it's Sta-Flo) which i then dilute with water in a pump spray bottle. It is MUCH less expensive than the canned spray stuff....and i can alter the ratio depending on what i'm working on.....ie: heavy or light.

I know of people who make the vodka starch. I've used it and it works fine.

I make the vodka sizing too and I put a few drops of lavender essential in.

Here's a way to make Homemade Distilled Water:
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-...ater/?ALLSTEPS

In my area Best Press can sometimes be found at estate sales, especially those with a lot of sewing supplies. It seems that the people who price items for the sales have no clue as to its value or retail cost and usually price it low. It is usually found with the window cleaners and dusting sprays. I also find packages of Color Catchers priced low at estate sales frequently.

I have no recommendation for making your own spray starch, although I remember using it years and years ago when I still ironed clothes. My comment is what a gorgeous German Shepherd you have, he/she is beautiful and reminds me of our last German Shepherd.

Hello Marge,
Thank you for your lovely comments about our German Shepherd. We have only recently got her after losing our last German Shepherd in January. She is quite a special girl because, although she lives with us, she is owned by the UK Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. She is one of their brood stock and her job (and ours) will be to produce and raise puppies who will grow up to become working Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Lakeland stocks powdered starch at a good price you can buy in store or online.

I have made my own starch for years and love it....