Hi All,I'm trying to dye a batch of coque feathers to match an emerald green satin i have.  In the past I've used Jacquard Procion dyes but the emerald green they have just comes out a beautiful deep lime or light grass green.So i tried a different brand but an acid dye and this time i got a forest green type colourToday ive tried Acid dye from Jacquard as I've used the brand for dying before and received good results.I used 1 teaspoon emerald acid dye, filled my fish poacher to 2 inches deep. …See More

Hi I have just bought a laminated raffia crochet hood from the 1970s.  Its ivory and gorgeous.  To open up I was going to steam, block and then..... what stiffener would you use? As its laminated and crocheted I wasnt too sure the best method. I'm making into a bridal crown headband. Also I dont want any discolouring so stiffener on inside or outside?Your help would be much appreciated... I'm also loving my studio subscription! Thanks Cathx See More

I bought some mats which are called paper mats. They are flat and woven in various colours. Although they are called paper they are actually a fine straw. I used 2 layers last night just to test how best to block them. I used water first to soak both layers, stretched and blocked on a wooden pillbox block.  I then brushed a stiffener all over and within the gaps and left to dry.  Although the shape has held well and I will add a brim wire, I feel I would like it stiffer. My  stiffener is 3…See More