Getting wax out of yarn can seem tricky, but you can often remove it effectively using a combination of gentle scraping and heat transfer with absorbent material.
Here’s how to remove wax from yarn:
The process involves first carefully removing as much solid wax as possible, then using heat and an absorbent material to draw out the remaining residue.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Wax
Follow these steps carefully to help lift wax from your yarn:
- Gently Scrape: Begin by gently scraping the wax using the edge of a spoon or a blunt knife. The key is to do this very carefully to avoid damaging the yarn fibers. This step removes the bulk of the wax, making the next step more effective.
- Heat and Absorb:
- Place the yarn with the remaining wax spot between layers of brown paper (like a paper bag) or kitchen towel.
- Set an iron to its very lowest setting.
- Gently press the iron onto the paper/towel directly over the wax spot. The heat will melt the wax, and the paper/towel will absorb it.
- Move the paper/towel as needed to use a clean section and repeat until no more wax is absorbed.
- If you are particularly concerned about heat damage, you can place a thin towel over the brown paper or kitchen towel for extra protection before ironing.
Why This Method Works
- Scraping: Mechanically removes the hardened wax buildup.
- Heat Transfer: Melting the wax makes it liquid and mobile.
- Absorbent Material: The paper or towel acts like a wick, drawing the melted wax out of the yarn fibers as it heats up.
Remember to work slowly and patiently, especially when dealing with delicate fibers. Always test this method on a small, inconspicuous piece of the yarn if possible.
