Crochet fabric is generous and open, which is what makes it drape so beautifully. It also means it needs a little more gentleness than a machine-knitted jumper. The good news: caring for it takes very little time.
Wash less than you think
Wool is naturally resistant to odours. Most of the time, airing a shawl over a chair back overnight is all it needs. When it does need a wash, once or twice a season is plenty.
The gentle wash
- Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of wool wash.
- Submerge the piece and press it down gently. Do not rub, twist or wring.
- Leave it to soak for around fifteen minutes, then rinse in water of the same temperature.
- Press out the water, then roll the piece in a clean towel to lift out more.
Dry it flat
Lay the piece flat on a dry towel or a drying rack, away from direct heat and strong sunlight. Ease it back into shape with your hands while it is damp. Hanging a wet crochet piece lets the weight of the water stretch it out of shape.
Storing between seasons
Fold, rather than hang, your shawls and scarves. Store them somewhere dry, ideally with a cedar block or a lavender sachet, which moths dislike.