Patg

Hi, I'm new here, registered quite awhile ago, but want to start participating. Looks like quite an active group!
My wool pressing mat has started getting those ugly yellow marks from using a hot iron on it. I really hate looking at it all stained like that. I understand you can wash it by hand, but is there something that will remove that yellow staining better than regular detergent? Thanks

bearisgray

I have no idea how to clean the mat itself.

I made a muslin "pillowcae/cover" for mine when I got it.

For two reasons - I got the one for horses and it may not be as ice as the "quilter quality" ones because it does shed a bit - and i know how my ironing board cover gets those marks and stains.

Cheshirepat

Everything I've read says to *only rinse* with cold water in a sink -by hand - and then hang to dry. I've got some light heat-yellowed spots as well, but I'm turning my other cheek for now!

Onebyone

Take a stiff brush or scrapper and scrap the marks off. I use an old serrated steak knife. It only takes a few scrapes to remove the scorch marks.

Patg

Interesting, I'll give that a try.

Patg

Thanks. I might try all the suggestions. I thought about covering it at one time, bit thought it would defeat the purpose of the wool.

sewingitalltogether

Mine has the scorch marks. I put the mat inside of a pillowcase.

Patg

I used an old disposable razor (that I was going to toss) and shaved the burnt areas off the wool mat. It worked great! I started laying an old linen tea towel over the top while pressing blocks and it is working fine. Thanks everyone

Patg

By the way, I made my own wool mat by crocheting it with wool yarn and felting it. It's as good as any mat that you buy and cost much less (used Hobby Lobby coupons to buy the yarn). I can look up the instructions if anyone wants them.

Onebyone

How did you get the crochet mat smooth? I tried crocheting one and felting but it would never get smooth, kinda bumpy. LOL