I use Fabric Sizing instead of starch. No white flakes. I have made my own slightly watered down liquid starch as well, but love that sizing.

I agree. I usually lightly water spray my fabric, wait a few minutes, then spray starch, wait a few minutes, then iron.
Never have any residue to deal with.

I'm a serious starch fanatic. I cut out a quilt for class today. I used 1 1/2 cans of heavy starch on the whole project before I even cut. I want it stiff as a board when I cut it out and sew it. I often work in no larger than 6.5 inch blocks unfinished with some very small pieces sometimes. I can't seem to live without the starch now.