How to Erase Oil Pastel Stains from Silk: A Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Oil pastels can be fun to use, but careful attention must be taken when dealing with these highly pigmented substances. A single drop of oil pastel can quickly turn into a colorful stain on delicate silk fabrics like dupioni. Fortunately, there are a few simple methods for cleaning these stains.
Updated 03 Mar 2023
By Peter Blackwood
What You’ll Need for Oil Pastel Stain Removal
- Paper towels
- Vinegar
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baking soda
- Liquid dishwashing soap
- Cotton swabs
Removing Oil Pastel Stains from Silk Dupioni
- Begin by blotting the stained area with paper towels to absorb as much of the oil pastel pigment as possible.
- Mix together one part vinegar and one part hydrogen peroxide in a bowl or cup. Dip a cotton swab into mixture and lightly dab the stained area.
- Using a damp towel, blot the stained area to remove the vinegar and hydrogen peroxide solution.
- Mix together equal parts baking soda and liquid dishwashing soap to create a paste. Using a cotton swab, gently rub the paste onto the stained area.
- Let paste sit on the stain for up to an hour, before rinsing with cold water.
- Pat the area dry with paper towels and repeat the steps until no more color comes off onto the paper towels.
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