Should You Wash Finished Cross Stitch Projects? Tips for Beginners

Washing your finished cross stitch project is a crucial step to ensure its longevity, brightness, and overall appearance. Many beginners wonder: Should you wash your cross stitch? The answer is almost always yes - and here’s why.

Why Washing Cross Stitch is Important

During the stitching process, fabric and threads accumulate dust, natural oils from your hands, and sometimes even tiny stains from handling. Washing helps to:

• Remove dirt, dust, and hand oils
• Brighten thread colors and make them look more vibrant
• Relax the fabric, allowing stitches to settle evenly
• Give the project a clean, polished finish before framing

Skipping this step may cause your cross stitch to look dull over time and can even affect its preservation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Cross Stitch

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Choose a clean sink or basin. Avoid using dirty or stained surfaces. Fill it with lukewarm water - not hot, as high temperatures may cause threads to bleed. (I always use wash basin with closed pump).

2. Add Mild Soap

Use a small amount of gentle liquid soap or baby shampoo. Harsh detergents can damage delicate threads and fabric.

3. Soak the Embroidery

Gently place your cross stitch in the water. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes to loosen dirt and oils. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can distort stitches.

4. Rinse Carefully

Drain the soapy water and refill with clean lukewarm water. Rinse thoroughly until all soap is gone.

5. Dry Flat

Lay the piece face down on a clean white towel. Gently roll to remove excess water, then lay flat to air dry completely. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric.

Final Touch

After drying, your stitches will look smoother, colors brighter, and fabric fresh. Washing also helps remove dust and sweat residue from your hands, preserving your work for years to come.

Thank you for reading!

✨ Don’t miss my → unicorn cross stitch chart, and see → my full collection of patterns.

Have fun stitching!