WMUTeach

I know this topic has been addressed before but I was sure I would never make my own starch but now, well, I would like to give it a try so I can starch my fabric more often and thus sew more accurately. Which of the methods do you find makes the best starch for your quilting projects? And if homemade starch products are not the best, tell me that too. I am open to all suggestions. Thank you everyone!

Tartan

A lot of QB members buy the jug of Stay-Flo starch I believe. You should be able to find it in a U.S. laundry aisle, if I have the correct name. I make my own but you have to use it up as it doesn't keep longer than 2 weeks.

mawluv

Tartan, if you add a couple of tablespoons lemon juice, fresh or bottled, to the starch it will keep indefinitely. I make mine with cornstarch and water/add lemon juice. I make a bottle of light and a bottle of heavy. Been using this for about three years now. Still using the same box of cornstarch. How frugal is that?

quiltstringz

I use the Sta-Flo and it is very reasonable. I can't remember exactly how much but was thinking it was under $5 for a jug(64 oz) and then you mix it so it is quite a bit of starch. I usually mix mine heavier half and half. Sorry I don't remember how much it was because when I go to get it I normally get several.

Tartan

I have added a Tbsp. of lemon juice but I still get it turning on me. I will increase to 2 Tbsp. in my next batch. When do you add yours? I boil my water, add my cornstarch with a whisk and wait for it to cool before adding my lemon juice.

ragamuffin

I would rather buy the Magic Sizing. It will put a nice feel to the fabric without the mess. I always have several cans
on the shelf. My local QS used it to teach us.

Sandra in Minnesota

Vodka-A few years ago someone posted a mixture of vodka and water to use as a spray starch. I guess vodka is made from potatoes, which is starch. Don't remember the portions.

pokeygirl

One heaping tablespoon of corn starch, one pint of distilled water and one or two drops of essential oil (optional) Use in spray bottle. I got this off the Fake it Frugal website.

ljptexas

My brother lives with me & he irons his own shirts, stiff! So I use a little liquid starch mixed with water in my little squirt bottle. Lasts a long, long time...

ManiacQuilter2

Sorry, but I really like this product called MAGIC SIZING. I am disable so I have to keep things simple so paying 99 cents for a can that last me a couple of months, I find it worth it. No flakes when pressing too soon. I can only get it at the Super Walmart. I don't particularly care for the major brand sold in the smaller store. I always end up getting cans that just don't work properly.