Floss Faq's

Why did you decide to begin hand-dyeing floss?

Seeing all the wonderful embroidery threads and hand-dyed floss available re-kindled my desire to start creating and working with colour again. I love the way colours flow and combine, to become something more than what I started with. Creating colours on paper, with needle and thread, or through hand-dyeing allows me to give free reign to the wisps of thought, idea and feeling, translating them into something tangible and real. I have recently been diagnosed with arthritis and find that the time spent creating my art, colours and needlework designs to be an effective way to deal with the aches and pains that accompany this condition. On the days that I cannot work with coloured pencils and paper, I can work with floss, thread and fabric.

What type of thread do you use?

Fantasy uses a base of DMC 6-strand white cotton floss. I am also experimenting with ecru and other very pale colours to see what effects can be achieved. They do not always work out, but it is fun trying!

What kind of dyes are used to create your colours?

How many yards are in a skein? Can I purchase samples of the floss?

Fantasy is available in 8-yd skeins. I also offer a 20-yd hank of each colour, for $3.50 (U.S.) plus shipping and handling. Samples can be requested by sending a SASE and $1.50 (U.S.). For this price, I will include 6 yds. of the colour of your choice and a free bookmark pattern available only with this offer.

I read on another website that hand-dyed floss needs to be rinsed before use. Is this necessary?

As with any hand/over-dyed floss, this floss is not guaranteed to be 100% colourfast. Although every effort is made to ensure the excess dye has been removed, I highly recommend that the floss be well-rinsed in cool water before use. Lay floss on white paper or fabric towels for a minute or two to check to colour bleed. If needed, repeat this step until there is no visible colour present on towel. Hang floss to dry, then it is ready for use.

Do I stitch my design the usual way, or is there a special method of using the floss?

There are a couple of methods for stitching with the floss. The most common is to complete each cross stitch as you go, in order to bring out the best of the colour variation in the floss. For a more blended look, work the stitches in the usual manner, starting with a line of 1/2 cross stitches, then reversing and completing the next 1/2 of the stitches.

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Page updated: February 22nd, 2008