I've decided to join Handmade Parade's Vintage Pillowcase Challenge. I'm not really into thrifting and have never made anything from vintage linens, but I just can't resist a challenge. The idea is that everyone makes something out of a single pillowcase and submits it by February 15. Entrants are free to use notions, interfacing, etc., but no additional fabric and no more than one pillowcase.
There seem to be a lot of people online making things out of vintage pillowcases and sheets and, if any of you are reading this, I would love to ask a couple of questions:
1. How do you clean them to get the Thrift Store smell out? I've washed in hot water, but they still smell a little. (They're currently in the washer again -- this time with a little bleach -- so hopefully that will help). I normally use hypo-allergenic, fragrance-free detergent, which may not be the best option for this particular job!
2. Where do you find them? I had no luck at the three Goodwills I went to, but ended up finding the ones I bought at the Value Village on 82nd (except the really bright colored one with black, which I bought on e-bay).
Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!
3:30 pm Update: The bleach got the musty smell out, but now they smell like a swimming pool!
First I gasped at the beauty of it, then I squeeled with delight knowing you are going to do this for us. I can hardly wait. Your minky blankets are the most beautiful things! Thank you so very much!
Posted by: Marcia | January 22, 2008 at 06:15 AM
for the future, I've been told that a bit of vinegar in the rinse cycle is a great softener and takes out smells.
beautiful pillowcases, by the way!
Posted by: trishia | January 22, 2008 at 06:11 PM
I let the washer fill with water and add a scoop (or cup) of detergent, mix in all the linens and then turn off the machine and let everything soak for a few hours then continue with the cycle. Usually this works out for me, but every once in a while, some of the things still smell a bit funny and the vinegar trick seems to work
Posted by: Regina | January 22, 2008 at 07:45 PM
Thank you for the tips, Regina and Trishia! I will try out the vinegar tonight. Alas, I have a front-loading washer, so I can't really soak them in there. (I could probably try something similar in the sink though.) I really appreciate the advice!
Posted by: Elizabeth | January 23, 2008 at 08:57 AM
If you are having trouble finding vintage sheets, material, pillowcases etc at the thrith or op shops try talking to the manager and see if they will put some aside for you when they sort or when donations come in. Make sure you go back on the agreed day and don't try to talk the price down to much. Most thrith shop can make money for their organisations through ragging ie bagged polishing cloths, rags for mechanics etc.
Hope this info helps
Posted by: Rhonda | July 27, 2008 at 01:04 AM