Wondering if you need to wash your Aida or linen before you start stitching? You’re not alone—it’s one of the most common questions we hear at Stitched Modern. The good news? The answer is pretty simple (and especially satisfying if you’re eager to get started!). Here’s what you need to know.
You don’t need to wash most Aida and linen before you start
The short answer to whether you need to wash your fabric before you stitch is no, you generally don’t need to. Most cross stitch fabrics, like Aida, evenweave, and linen, come ready to use right out of the package, so you can just jump right into stitching.
For most fabrics, the reasons not to wash outweigh the benefits. Shrinkage is typically minimal and unlikely to affect your finished piece, especially if you plan to frame it. Washing can also cause the raw edges to fray or slightly distort the weave, which can make stitching more difficult.
Also, many fabrics come with a bit of starch or sizing that gives them a crisp feel—helpful when you're counting threads or making precise stitches. Washing removes that, which can make the fabric feel softer but also a bit floppier to work with.
So unless your fabric falls into a few special categories, you can feel totally fine skipping the wash and getting straight to the fun part.
When you might want to wash your fabric
There are a few situations where a quick pre-wash could be a good idea:
- Hand-dyed fabric: These can sometimes bleed, especially if they haven’t been properly set. If you’re not sure about colorfastness, test a corner or swatch with cool water before you start stitching.
- Super stiff fabric: Some fabric can feel a bit too crisp. A gentle wash can help soften the fibers and make them easier to work with.
- Projects that will get washed a lot: Think baby bibs, towels, or anything that’s going to be used (and laundered) regularly. Pre-washing helps reduce the chance of shrinking or warping after you stitch.
- If you have sensitive skin: Some fabrics are treated with starch or other finishing agents. If that bothers your skin, a rinse in plain water should help.
How to pre-wash fabric (if you choose to)
If one of those exceptions applies, here’s how to wash your fabric safely:
- Finish the raw edges first so the fabric doesn’t fray. A zigzag stitch, pinking shears, or a quick swipe of fabric tape all work.
- Soak the fabric in lukewarm water—add a drop of gentle soap if you like, but it’s not always necessary.
- Rinse thoroughly, press out excess water (don’t wring), and lay the fabric flat to dry.
- Once dry, give it a quick press with an iron to remove wrinkles before you start stitching.
Either way, don’t skip the final wash
Whether you pre-wash or not, it’s important to wash your finished piece when you're done stitching. Washing helps remove oils from your hands, stray dust, and any marks from hoops or grime that built up while you stitched. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in how your project looks when it’s done.
Check out our guide on how to wash and iron your finished cross stitch to make sure your piece is clean, crisp, and ready to display.
So, should you pre-wash?
Probably not—and that’s perfectly fine. Most stitchers skip this step with no issues at all. But if you’re working with hand-dyed fabric, super stiff linen, or anything meant for heavy use, a little rinse could give you peace of mind.
Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to enjoy the stitching journey. You’ve got this!
