From the LumaKnots journal
How to care for crochet flowers so they last for years
Crochet flowers do not need water, but a little care keeps their colour bright and their petals in shape. Here is what works.
The best thing about crochet flowers is that they never wilt. With a little care, a bouquet you give today can look just as bright years from now.
Dust them gently
Bouquets on a shelf collect a little dust. Once every couple of weeks, brush them lightly with a soft, dry makeup brush or use a hair dryer on its cool setting from a short distance.
Washing, only when needed
Most pieces never need a full wash. If one does, follow these steps:
- Use cool water with a drop of mild liquid soap.
- Press the suds through gently. Do not rub, twist or wring.
- Rinse in clean cool water and press out the water with a towel.
- Keep metal parts such as keyrings, clips and pins as dry as you can.
Dry flat and reshape
Lay the piece flat on a dry towel in the shade. While it is still damp, nudge each petal back into place with your fingers. Never put crochet in a dryer or iron it directly.
Shade, not sun. Strong sunlight is the one thing that fades yarn over time.
Where to keep them
Display bouquets away from a sunny window, and keep hair accessories and keychains in a pouch when you are not using them, so they do not snag on other things in your bag.
Caring for something like a Red Rose Bouquet or a Flower Hair Clip takes a minute, and it keeps them looking handmade with love for a long time.
