how do i soften very stiff fabric?

Janis

I have a new karate suit that appears to have been stiffened with something and I have washed it twice and if anything it feels worse. Its like wearing cardboard and is very challenging to iron. I used white vinegar and also fabric conditioner (that i bought before i read about white vinegar as a conditioner so i might as well use it).

Are there any products or methods to soften up this fabric quickly?

I know that it will probably do this with time or with repeated wearing between washes like my old lab coat used to (same sort of fabric). However as its white I dont want to wear it repeatedly between washes or i'll get sweat stains etc (yuk).

The suit only just fitted when new and has shrunk a bit so I would prefer any suggestions that dont cause further shrinkage if possible.

Thanks in advance and Happy easter/holidays to all (and lots of chocolate)
janis

calleyw

I do cross stitch and sometimes I get stiff fabric which makes it hard to hold and crunches right up.

I have found that washing in it in woolite by hand and then ironing made it softer.

Might worth a try and as you hand washing should not make it shrink.


Yours


Calley

ladygrey_2

to add to the above Iron it while slightly damp