Preparing your materials

 One of the nice things about the time allowed for the Calontir Clothing Challenge is that it is long enough to take your time, to really do things properly.  I took a break today from sewing the first layer to continue preparing the materials we need for the other layers.  

Here are the steps we are taking:

1.  Wash the fabrics. You don't want surprises after you finish your project.

    Linen needs to be washed and dried in a machine to shrink it as much as possible before sewing.  

    Wool will felt if it is too hot or too agitated.  Wash on delicate cycle and air dry.

    Silk bleeds dyes very easily.  Wash by hand in cool water with a gentle cleanser.  Air dry.




2. Iron the fabrics.  This is a step I often skipped in the past.  It really helps to do this.
    Linen needs a hot iron with lots of steam to knock down all of the wrinkles.
    
    Wool needs a cooler iron with a little steam. Washing roughs up the surface, so you want to smooth down the fibers again.
    
    Silk needs a cool iron without steam to make it smooth again.


As anxious as you are to start on your project, it is more satisfying in the long run to prep everything first.

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