can I use some sort of Elmer's glue concoction to use as a stiffener for crocheted snowflakes? The Alene's stuff is so pricey, would Elmer's glue work, and have you tried it?

As a Christmas tree topper, I have a crocheted angel that was given to me by my grandmother. And to stiffen that, she used a water/sugar solution. And it worked great! Unfortunately I don't have the exact proportions right off the top, but I do know how well it worked. I'm sure something like that would work for snowflakes too. If I ever locate the exact formula I can pass it on.

My Mom did tons of crocheting and stiffened all of her things with starch! That's the way to do it.

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Annie - I have used white glue as a stiffener also, with it diluted about 4:1 with water. Soak the item and gently squeeze out the excess water, and then place it over the bowl or whatever you're using as a form, or gently stretch it flat on a hard surface if a doily or table runner. Note: I've found it easier to remove once dry if it is dried on foil or waxed paper.

The biggest drawback I've found to using glue is that it doesn't seem to dry quite as stiff as starch or other stiffeners sold specificially for that purpose.

thanks a bunch - now I've got a few ideas to go on