How to Finish Handwoven Chenille

Rayon or cotton chenille yarns require a different finishing technique than other handwoven articles. When chenille is in loom-state it feels stiff as cardboard. This finishing treatment will make it soft and luxurious.

 
Difficulty Level:
Average
Time Required:
3 hours
Here’s How:

1. Remove your handwoven rayon or cotton chenille scarf from the loom.
2. Fix any broken ends, knots or other necessary repairs.
3. Make a tightly twisted fringe to finish the edge.
4. Using a spray bottle filled with clean water, spray the chenille article until damp.
5. Roll the article up and place it in a plastic bag.
6. Let the article sit in the bag a few hours, or overnight.
7. Remove the article from the bag, and place it your dryer on high heat, gentle cycle.
8. Let dry in dryer for 10 minutes.
9. Remove from the dryer, and press with a steam iron.
10. If any of the fringe has come undone, the ends can be retwisted.

Tips:

• If you are in a hurry, you can skip Step 6, leaving the chenille to sit in the plastic bag.
• The fringe must be tightly twisted, to prevent worming.