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Deb asked: How do I clean needlepoint pictures and sofas done in needlepoint? I have a few needlepoint pictures that are NOT under glass. They have dust and smoke that has accumulated on them over the years. I also have three pieces of antique furniture that was done in needlepoint. These have been used over the years and may need freshening up. Any help would be appreciated.
Although 
you can clean needlepoint yourself, it is strongly suggested that you take any antique pieces or those with large monetary or emotional value to a professional. For the rest, this method will deliver results.
You Will Need:
- Vacuum
- Orvus W.A. Paste
- Clean tub (large enough to submerge needlepoint)
- Board
- Wax paper
- Push pins
- Towel
Steps to Clean the Needlepoint:
- Remove the needlepoint from the frame. If the edges of the needlepoint are trimmed, you may need to secure them against unraveling with Seams Great.
- Use the upholstery brush attachment to remove loose dust and debris from the needlepoint. If the suction on your machine is too strong, secure a thin cloth such as an old t-shirt over the end to reduce it.
- Put just enough warm water in the bottom of the tub to dissolve one cup of Orvus W.A. Paste.
- Add cool water until the water is about two inches deep.
- Carefully submerge the needlepoint.
- Rub gently with your fingertips. Be sure to get each side twice.
- If the water turns dark, remove the needlepoint, dump the cleaning solution out, and repeat the previous steps. Continue to do so until the water remains reasonably clean.
- Rinse thoroughly from both sides until no traces of the soap are visible.
- Roll the clean canvas up in a towel and press lightly to remove excess water. Do not twist or wring out the piece.
- Before the piece dries, “block” it by stretching it over a board lined with wax paper. Pin the canvas to the board in several places, ensuring it is straight to help it retain the proper shape as it dries.
Additional Tips and Advice
- If the color “bleeds”, do NOT allow the canvas to dry. Continue rinsing and soaking it until all of the bleed has washed out. This may take several days of soaking, but allowing it to dry will set the colors.
- If needlepoint cannot be removed from upholstery, fill a spray bottle with the cleaning solution of dissolved Orvus W.A. Paste and cool water. Vacuum the area to be cleaned, then spray the needlepoint with the cleaner. Pat with a clean towel and repeat until clean. Do not soak the furniture. If the surface gets too wet, wait for it to dry before continuing.
- If spots are left, a clean, white cloth wet with lighter fluid can improve the appearance. Spot test in a hidden area first.
- Orvus W. A. Paste can be found at quilting or fabric supply stores, horse supply stores, and online.
How does one remove the odor of cigarette smoke from a needlepoint cushion?
Sue,
There are several methods for dealing with odors on non-washable items.
1) Get a box that is slightly larger than the cushion and sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the bottom (a thick layer). Place a cookie rack in the box, set the cushion on the rack, and seal the box. Let it sit overnight or for 24 hours, then check to see if the odor is gone. If not, replace the baking soda and repeat the process. You may need to do this twice, flipping the pillow each time.
2) Fresh (unused) coffee grounds can be used instead of baking soda using the same method.
3) The same process can also be used with activated charcoal, which you can get at an aquarium supply store.
4) Another option is to use white vinegar. There are two ways to do that. You can use the same method as the baking soda, but put the vinegar in a bowl and set it next to the cushion in the box, or you can spray the cushion with the vinegar directly. To do the spray, mix the vinegar with 2 parts water (a 1:3 ratio vinegar:water) and spray the cushion. Start with a light spray and if needed, a second or third more liberal spray can be used.
5) Another option is to have the cushion dry cleaned. If a professional dry cleaner won’t do it, you can use a home dry cleaning kit instead. These are available in the laundry aisle of most supermarkets.
Good luck!
Source: How To Clean Stuff – How to Remove Smoke Smell from Non-Washable Items