How to Stiffen Lace

Tried and True Stiffening that Can't Be Beat
by Jackie E-S

QUESTION —

From Shirley of Sydney Australia:

Dear Jackie, Have just discovered your wonderful site to-day, and I have already learned more than I ever knew before, so a big thanks to you and your team

A question: I am wanting to make snowflakes and leaves but I feel a little stiffening is in order. Can I use starch, or is there some other magic formula?

ANSWER —

As to stiffening, yes by all means, stiffen your lace leaves and lace snowflakes if you feel it is needed for the type thread and use you are putting these to. (some people prefer not stiffening because they are using for clothing motifs, etc.) It is totally up to you.

My own preferences when I do choose to stiffen are to use plain laundry starch.

Other things that people sometimes use are sugar water, glue or craft stiffeners. My own experiences are that the sugar water is sticky and can attract ants. Glue and craft stiffeners can eventually yellow over time. That is why I choose not to use them. But of course I have not tried every product out there and sometimes new, improved products come on the market.

But for good-ol' basic tried and true stiffening, I don't think you can beat laundry starch.

Do you have a Question about knitting technique or skill? Please email me and I will consider it for an upcoming Q&A.

Patterns for lace snowflakes and lace leaves:

• No Two Alike Snowflakes
• Playing in the Leaves
• Oak Leaf

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