I'm collecting ties to make a small wall hanging. Most of what I'm getting are second hand, and some are silk. I want to clean them before starting the project. I don't want to get into a large dry cleaning bill, but how can I clean them at home?

Beth

How about one of those home dry cleaning kits you buy at the supermarket and put in your dryer, it comes with spot remover

And don't forget the Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, and other thrift shops for finding more ties.

I would throw them in the wash on warm gentle, small amt of soap. I would open the back seam. Then after they dry press them open. if you throw them in the wash I recommend a Lingerie bag to keep them from twisting and tangling. take out wet and air dry to cut down on wrinkles. You could even press them mostly dry I used the acetate/ nylon setting on my Iron. I used a wet pc. of cloth on my wedding silk. I made my wedding dress with 100% pure silk. beaded. I washed it and dried it then pressed it, no problem. If you are worried just wash one or two by hand. The least favorites to see what happens. This way you can be confident of tossing your finished product into a gentle cycle now and then. Wall hangings collect a lot of dust. :P :lol: :D

I'd love to see you wall hanging. I have all of my dad's old ties and I am always looking for a project for them.....
Also would like a project of handkerchiefs.... any ideas. quilter 1234

Quilter1234,
Have you seen the quilt made with hankies that are folded and then made into butterflys? It's very pretty and unique, I personally do not have the pattern, but have seen it several times. However I do have a old quilt mag, that has a block type quilt using old hankies, if interested, PM me and I can send the instructions through the snail mail. Becky

Hi Beth--My daughter has used the home dry cleaning kits with excellent results. Might be an option for the ties.

When I made my little storm at sea wallhanging from Dad's ties I took them apart, remembering they're cut on the bias, then hand washed them....anything that didn't like being washed, didn't get used.