Precut 58" x 60" Wide Monk's Cloth unwashed

Monk's Cloth is used for creating Swedish weaving afghans, baby blankets, table runners, place mats, clothing and costumes. Monk's Cloth is the base fabric for the yarn embroidery called Swedish weaving.  

Monk's Cloth derives its name from the woolen fabric used to make the clothing for monks centuries ago. Some claim that the hems of monk's habits were adorned with designs using yarn in a technique similar to Swedish weaving. Today, we decorate cotton monk's cloth with yarn to make beautiful and unique items for family, friends and for the home.

Preparation of Monk's Cloth:  
When purchasing the monk's cloth make sure it should be cut following the cross-grain of the fabric. Monk's cloth must be stitched at both cut ends prior to preshrinking and weaving. Either machine stitch or use of a hem stitch like "The Italian Hem Stitch" to keep the fabric from unraveling. The stitching should be about 1.5" to 2.5" from the cut edge depending to create a nice fringe. After stitching, unravel the monk's cloth up to the stitching including the selvage. 

To preshrink the Monk's cloth, completely soak the fabric in a washer with hot or warm water only. Do not add detergent or pour it directly on the monk's cloth. Many detergents contain brighteners, which may cause spotting. Do not "wash" or agitate the fabric excessively, which can cause pills to foam on the fabric. After soaking, spin out the excess water. Place in a warm or hot dryer with a fabric softener sheet (no liquid softeners). Next, iron with a hot steam iron to relax and smooth the fabric. Always wash completed blankets on delicate cycle with a mild product as Wool-Lite or dry clean.