follow up: molly’s fleece
I went back to Target and got several more of those lingerie bags. Then I sat on the floor and carefully loaded them up with locks (lined up in rows, not just jammed in there). When I was done I had filled 18 bags, but it was such a small amount compared to the size of the fleece! Next I went downstairs to my washing machine and, using the hottest setting I could, filled the machine up along with three squirts of Unicorn Power Scour. Finally I stuffed all the bags into the washer. I let it soak for about 10-15 minutes, spun out the water, filled it again and added two squirts of Power Scour. I let it soak again for about 15 minutes, spun it out, and then filled the washer again without soap. After giving it a final spin, I emptied the bags and laid the locks out to dry.
Negatives
- The bags took up a lot of space that could have been filled with more fleece.
- Since the bags were vertical, some of the locks ended up smooshed into a corner instead of staying nicely arranged.
- The bags looked nearly empty once the locks were wet and compressed; seemed like I could have gotten more in there
- The tips were not as clean as I would have liked.
- Packing the bags was very time consuming.
Positives
- The fleece was very clean. I have been having issues with tackiness even after washing. I think it worked better this time because I didn’t over-stuff the washing machine.
- The locks were not jumbled up or messy. They are individual and have maintained their crimp and curl.
- The bags were easy to maneuver.
- I will have less picking and sorting to do after dyeing.
I went back to Target and found these stackable, foldable sweater drying racks. They were $5.99 each and quite helpful, especially since I had thought about making something similar myself.
OHH I need some of the sweater racks. sure beats having wool all over the floor.
I love this behind the scenes process posts. I’ve never washed a fleece before or done any fiber processing so this was really interesting to see.
Also, I could really use some of those drying racks.
April recently posted..Yoga February: Week 2
Sounds like both of you need to make a trip to Target! Yay Target!
Gwen recently posted..follow up: molly’s fleece
Gwen, have you used Orvus for cleaning fiber? If not, I’d try it as it’s very inexpensive compared to something like Unicorn. The Orvus sold in yarn and quilting shops is the exact same as what’s sold in feed stores for a whole lot less. I’d be really surprised if there isn’t a feed store in or near Hubbard (I used to live SW of Portland). If there isn’t a feed store nearby, any of the PetSmarts that have a horse supply section probably sell it.
It was developed for washing horses and livestock and rinses easily. It’s great for getting out dirt and lanolin. If you want to keep some lanolin, you’ll have to tinker with reducing the amount to leave some lanolin in. It comes in paste form, and 7.5 lbs. can be had for around $25.
Lastly, I really like your colors!
Hi Chandra! Thank you very much for the suggestion. I have heard of Orvus, but I have not tried it. I know we’ve got some ag stores around and I’ve got friends with horses, so I’ll have to do some investigating. If it works and it’s cheaper, it’s worth a try!