Q&A

By Marla Stefanelli

How do you make crinkles and pleats permanent in fabric?
Alexis B.,
e-mail

Use a solution of one-half water and one-half white vinegar to set creases in fabric. Test the solution on a fabric scrap or an inconspicuous area of the garment. When pressing pleats, spray the solution on a press cloth, and then place the press cloth over the pleat; press. Let the fabric cool before removing it from the ironing board.

To set crinkles, which are common in gathered or broomstick skirts, wet the fabric with the solution. Cut the legs from a pair of panty hose and open up the toes. Gather the fabric with your fingers and pull the fabric through one panty-hose leg. Then pull the sausage-like tube through the other panty-hose leg so the toes are at opposite ends. Dry in the dryer. Check to be sure the fabric center is completely dry before removing the fabric from the panty hose.

The vinegar-and-water solution is also helpful when trying to remove creases.

From the October 2006 issue of Sew News magazine.