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Monday, January 14, 2008

Magic Sizing vs. Spray Starch


I have been experimenting with using Magic Sizing (Extra Crisp) instead of spray starch when I make circles to appliqué using Perfect Circles. (See my blog post of Dec. 5 for a description of how to do this.) And it works beautifully. Now I don't have to worry about moths and silverfish eating holes in my heirloom quilts! I'm a convert.

You may have to look around a bit for this product. I found it in an upscale grocery store, with the laundry products. I had tried several other discount and regular grocery stores before I found it.

3 comments:

  1. Hi Susan,

    I stumbled across your blog through another quilter's blog. What a lot of great information! I've been using Magic Sizing for prepping applique pieces but never knew it was available in "extra crisp"! I will have to keep my eyes open for it.

    I love your mystery block of the month. Just what I need...more temptation!

    Take care!

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  2. Hello,

    I have been following links from here and there discovering some great blogs. I love your profile photo by the way.

    I have used sizing for years with my sewing and ironing. After you spray it on, give it a few seconds to sit and there won't be any residue to brush off. I buy it at Walmart, next to the starch, and have also used the dollar store brand with equal results. The extra crisp is great on collars.

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  3. I took your advice, found Magic Spray Sizing Extra Crisp (available locally at Homeland - everywhere else only had the regular), and I LOVE using it. I spray once if I just want "non-floppy" fabric or twice if I am working with curves and circles. I sew inset circles using the Curve Master presser foot, and sizing is GREAT for keeping all the bias edges from stretching. I also cut the circles and holes with the Olfa circle cutting tool (which is great), and the sizing is an absolute MUST for keeping the fabric flat while cutting those perfect circles. It would work for any curved pieces, such as in Drunkard's Path or Wedding Ring. I also use it when paper piecing. I spritz and iron each piece before adding it. When I iron it again after stitching, the sizing is reactivated, the piece STAYS without shifting, and the seam lies perfectly flat - ready for the next piece to be added. Thanks so much for directing us to this product! It has improved my "process" tremendously! And an added bonus: I really like how it smells.

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