Originally Posted by wingrider

My quilt guild put this starch recipe out recently in a newsletter (won't attract bugs). "This is a substitute for Best Press starch. Works the same, no white flakes when you iron. Smells good and puts back the body removed by prewashing."
Mix together:
1 tsp lavender essential oil (found in Walmart candlemaking supplies) Note: optional if allergic to scents.
3 oz. vodka
Then add to 24oz distilled water in large spray bottle and shake well.
Hint: Vodka is made from potatoes , a natural starch.

Originally Posted by Gal

Thanks Sherri, just thoght I would tell you about what I do with lavender, I grow it and pick the flowers to bring inside in bunches to dry, it helps keep flies away (I live in the country)I also put it in my linen press to make my cupboard smell nice and it is supposed to keep moths away etc. I also make little lavender bags with the flowers to put among my fabric stash to make it smell nice and keep moths and insects out of that too! It beats the smell of moth balls (does anyone still use those)? When the bags appear to have dried out just squeeze them and that releases the oils again. I do not lay them between fabrics just inside the cupboaed will be enough. I have been sewing for years and used this plant in among my fabrics and I have not had any problems with moths or insects etc. Much cheaper than buying a product and it lasts a long time. Smells fabulous!!

Gal