Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: Is there any way to make your own starch for ironing? I like the way my husband’s shirts look when I starch them, but I usually run out late at night and want to finish the task then. I would appreciate your help. - Peggy Newsome, Broken Arrow, Okla.

I’m happy to pass on Grandmother’s money-saving hint.

You can make your own “spray” starch cheaply whenever you need it, using plain old cornstarch and water.

Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in 1 pint of cold water. When mixed very well, pour into a spray bottle. Be sure to label the bottle.

Before each use, shake the bottle, then just spritz the garment, pat with your hand and iron away. There are also powdered and liquid starches that you can buy at your grocery store.