In a comment to my post about crocheted bookmarks, Pag @Bloomfield Farm asked me what kind of starch and what technique I used. So I thought I’d make a little post about it.
I use potato starch, but I believe corn starch will work just as well. The measurements are approximate. In a pan, mix together about ¼ cup of water and 1 tablespoon of starch (you will need a bit more or less depending on how stiff you want your doily). Heat it over medium-low heat stirring constantly until it thickens. Let it cool. Place doily in the starch making sure that it’s completely wet. Squeeze doily to remove access starch. Place doily on towel and straighten it out. Let doily dry.
It’s that easy!
In the picture above is the doily made by my mom. I call it “pineapple doily” as its pattern reminds me of pineapples.
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13 comments:
Thanks for posting this how-to and beautiful photo!
Hi Olga, Thanks for sharing this! I am going to try it, I have a pile of need to irons... I usually use spray starch and iron. This sounds a lot easier! Gorgeous rose!
Bella
Very delicate pattern! Lovely!
Hi Olga - I have several of these made by my husband's grandmother. Your rose looks lovely in the vase.
Hi Olga, thanks for the nice comment on my blog. I never thought of starching my doilies...I love the look. I scrolled down and saw your beautiful bookmarks. It's been a while since I crocheted but maybe it's time to give it another try. Blessings, Patty
Wonderful.
Tante Borghild (98 years old) uses a mixture of sugar and water (f.ex. gently dissolve 3/4 cup granulated sugar in 1/4 cup water). Let this cool down and dip the slightly humid ornament into it. Press out excess water and let dry. You can also form it around a glass etc (upside down) to make for example small candy bowls..
Wow, I can't even make a string;) I'm anti-gifted when it comes to crafts but it only makes me appreciate it better.
What wonderful knowledge to share with so many. Thank you...
Oh, for heaven's sake. You have such great ideas and information, Olga. Thank you for sharing.
Wonderful photo, and information. I can remember my Grandmother's starching doilies, but I didn't know exact way they did it. Thanks for stopping by.
Sandy
thanks for the info. rose
I have several doilies very similar to yours. My mother made them back in the 1930s. I will try your method to starch them. She even made me some crocheted placemats that she starched very stiffly. I have always been afraid to wash them because i didn't know how to make them stiff again. Thanks for your information!
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