Wool is a natural fiber, and it can be starched to give it some body—like for lace shawls, doilies (if you’re feeling fancy), or anything you want to hold its shape better. But here's the key: go light. Wool can get stiff or even damaged if you go overboard. I usually mix a gentle starch solution (think: watered-down spray starch or homemade cornstarch mix), test it on a little swatch first (because wool can be fussy), and then block it as usual. Pin it into place, spritz lightly, and let it dry like it’s on a spa retreat. Just remember: once you starch it, it’s not as bouncy or stretchy. So don’t go starching your favorite cozy sweater unless you want to turn it into a wool sculpture. Learned that the hard way with a scarf that could practically stand up by itself.
|