Starch. Some sewists swear by it, others skip it entirely. But there’s no denying that it can be an incredibly useful tool in the sewing room. Whether you’re pressing seams, preparing fabric for cutting, or giving your finished project a crisp look, starch can make your sewing easier and your results neater.
The most popular choices among sewists is Best Press. It is designed to smooth wrinkles, add body to fabric, and make your material easier to handle. It’s also known for leaving no flakes or residue, which makes it a dependable favorite for many.
If you like a good DIY project, you can even make your own starch at home. All you need is a bottle of vodka (yes, you read that right). Just make sure it’s made from potatoes, since that’s the natural source of starch. Mix ¼ cup vodka with 1 cup distilled water and pour it into a spray bottle. Shake gently, and you’re ready to press. Some sewists like to increase the vodka ratio for extra stiffness. While this method works, it’s not always the most economical option.
For a simple and affordable choice, you can’t go wrong with regular spray starch from the laundry aisle. It’s easy to find, effective, and adds just the right amount of crispness to your fabric. Some people worry about flakes, but that can be avoided by spraying the starch on the wrong side of your fabric before cutting or sewing. Once the fabric is pressed and ready to go, you’ll enjoy smooth, easy-to-handle material with a professional finish.
Whether you prefer a premium product, a homemade mix, or a classic can from the grocery store, starch can make a big difference in your sewing results. Do you use starch when you sew? Let us know in the comments what works for you!
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re “Just make sure it’s made from potatoes, since that’s the natural source of starch.” There is no starch left after vodka is distilled, even when made from potatoes. It is the alcohol that provides the stiffening and quicker drying effect. I use Costco American vodka with great results!
Starch is a necessity in a quilt studio. But, who knew!? Vodka. A DIY starch using Vodka. Wow 😮