June Tailor Fray Block

[sewingrandma]

I've used this for years and finally had to buy a new tube. This one states on the instructions to run under hot water for 3 mins then shake for 30 seconds. I've looked on line and found some FAQ and it said to do it if it is cloudy. Has anyone used the 'new' fray block with these instructions? Do you do the hot water and shake each sewing session or just shake it like the 'old' version. I really liked the old version and used it on many sewing items and for knit and crochet items if I knew they would be washed repeatedly as it didn't leave any trace that it was used-no lumps, hard spots or scratchiness. This new batch leaves a lump and some scratchiness.

[MartySews2]

I've used the new one as I had to replace my tube about 6 months ago. I didn't run it under any water or shake or anything. It's held up very well especially on T-shirts that go thru the washer and dryer frequently.
Marty

[sewhappyrtr]

I never knew there was anything called fray block... what is it??? what is it used for??? sounds like something I could have used many times.. I have sewn fabric that frayed horribly in the past...

[MartySews2]

Karen, Fray Block is used primarily on machine embroidery and serged items to prevent the threads from coming undone. I use it all of the time. One tube will last forever. You can run a line along the edge of your fabric which will reduce fraying of the seam but I don't use it that way. I mainly use mine on embroidery designs and items that I serge to seal the stitches.
Marty

[LeapFrog Libby]

I use it just to seal the ends of serger seams when pulling the threads back thru the stitches would show in a bad way. Once in a while I use it on a regular seam on my regular machine.

[missfleecy]

Is this the same thing as (but a different brand than) Dritz Fray Check?

~ Miss Fleecy

[LeapFrog Libby]

Yes, it comes in a tube and ends up softer than Fray Check.. Fray Check always stays hard to the touch after drying. Fray Block does not do this. I like it better for baby things especially. I do not know if there is more than one, but my tube is blue. I have never noticed the mfr. name on it.

[missfleecy]

Sounds very interesting and potentially useful! I'll have to look into it. I've only ever used Fray Check. Thanks!

~ Miss Fleecy

[MartySews2]

Fray Block is by June Tailor and is about $7 a tube. I like it better than Fray Check as it dries soft, goes thru the washer & dryer easily, and doesn't stain the fabric or leave lumps that can be itchy in a garment. A tube will last me several years as you only dab it on. You can find it at most big box stores including JoAnn's, Hancock Fabrics, and Wal-Mart.
Marty

[sewingrandma]

I've done further research on my original question-running it under hot water, and found out that it is only needed if the liquid has turned milky or thickened in any way. The hot water 'refreshes/renews' the liquid back to its clear and very liquid state. I too prefer the Fray Block over the Fray Check since it stays soft even after years of washing. I have baby blankets I made for my children (my baby is 35) and I used Fray block on them and the ends remain hidden, soft and no discoloration from it.